The New Orleans Saints‘ offseason has been marked by tactical decisions aimed at creating a more balanced roster, giving the coaching staff the tools to compete in a tightly contested NFC South. While star running back Alvin Kamara remains the offensive centerpiece, the front office focused on strengthening the defense with a veteran who previously played for the Minnesota Vikings and, before that, the Chicago Bears.
With an offense built around Kamara, the Saints are looking to avoid the overexertion and lack of ball control that hampered their performance in recent seasons. That’s why the franchise recently doubled down on fortifying the defensive line with physical presence and experience, elements that could translate into greater in-game stability.
“The Saints have agreed to terms with defensive end Jonathan Bullard, per his agent Jon Perzley. The former Vikings lineman visited New Orleans last month and now officially reunites with Brandon Staley, a coach with the Bears when Bullard played for Chicago,” revealed NFL insider Mike Garafolo on his X account (formerly Twitter).
Who is Bullard, the Saints’ newest addition?
Bullard arrives from the Vikings, where he played the past two seasons. He was selected by the Bears in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft and also spent time with the Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks. With over 100 NFL games under his belt, the 30-year-old veteran brings valuable experience to a young and competitive locker room.
Jonathan Bullard during his stint in the Bears
Bullard joined New Orleans after an important meeting with the team a few days ago, ultimately reuniting with Brandon Staley, now on the Saints’ staff and formerly his position coach in Chicago. That connection was reportedly instrumental in finalizing the deal, as the Saints valued both Bullard’s immediate impact and his ability to mentor younger players.
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The impact of Bullard’s arrival
Defensive coordinator Joe Woods may deploy Bullard as a flexible piece in base formations. His presence is expected to help reduce the defense’s time on the field, a factor that will allow Kamara and the offense to operate with more rest and efficiency.
