The New Orleans Saints have made significant moves in free agency, signing Louisiana native Travis Etienne along with tight end Noah Fant and guard David Edwards to bolster their lineup ahead of the 2026 NFL season. These acquisitions show the Saints’ intent to enhance both their offensive backfield and line.
Travis Etienne Returns Home to New Orleans
Travis Etienne, a 27-year-old running back originally from Jennings, Louisiana, is joining the Saints after five seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who selected him in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Etienne had a standout 2025 season, rushing 260 times for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns, ranking 11th and 8th in the NFL for rushing yards and carries respectively. Bringing Etienne back to his home state marks a significant step for the Saints’ backfield.
ESPN Insider Adam Schefter noted that returning to Louisiana was a key factor in Etienne’s decision to sign with New Orleans. The deal reportedly spans four years, valued at approximately $52 million.
David Edwards Adds Strength to the Offensive Line
To support their running game, the Saints have secured guard David Edwards, a 28-year-old former Buffalo Bills lineman regarded as one of the best free-agent offensive guards available. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 309 pounds, Edwards agreed to a four-year contract worth around $61 million. The deal will become official after the free agency moratorium lifts this Wednesday.
Noah Fant Joins Saints in Two-Year Agreement
The Saints have also signed tight end Noah Fant, previously with the Denver Broncos and Cincinnati Bengals, on a two-year contract. NFL Network reporters Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero confirmed the signing on Monday afternoon.
The #Saints make another addition on offense, signing former #Bengals TE Noah Fant, per me and @TomPelissero. He gets a 2-year deal. pic.twitter.com/26ZxnsUnW0
Additional Roster Changes and Departures
These new arrivals come as the Saints adjust to recent roster changes; longtime linebacker DeMario Davis is expected to sign with the New York Jets, while cornerback Alontae Taylor is reportedly joining the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $60 million contract. The team is also adding punter Ryan Wright from the Minnesota Vikings on a four-year deal valued at $14 million, including $8 million guaranteed.
Implications for the Saints Moving Forward
Coming into the 2026 season, the Saints’ signings of Etienne, Edwards, and Fant display a focused effort to enhance offensive versatility and strength, addressing key positions while localizing talent with Etienne’s homecoming. These strategic moves are expected to improve the team’s competitiveness as they navigate offseason challenges and upcoming games.
Source: Former Jaguars RB Travis Etienne will be signing with the New Orleans Saints. He’s from Louisiana and it was important for him to be near home. pic.twitter.com/fDFkejvqe5
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2026
The #Saints make another addition on offense, signing former #Bengals TE Noah Fant, per me and @TomPelissero. He gets a 2-year deal. pic.twitter.com/26ZxnsUnW0
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2026
