In a stunning move that’s shaking up the NFC, veteran defensive end Jonathan Bullard has inked a free-agent deal with the New Orleans Saints, as reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. The terms of the contract remain under wraps, but the signing marks a pivotal addition for a Saints defense desperate to bolster its front line.

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The 31-year-old Bullard, fresh off a one-year, $2.25 million stint with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, brings a wealth of experience to New Orleans. Last season, he started all 17 games for the first time in his nine-year NFL career, racking up 41 tackles (21 solo) and one sack. While his overall grade from Pro Football Focus ranked him 110th out of 219 defensive linemen, Bullard’s knack for clogging running lanes makes him a valuable asset.

At 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds, Bullard is built to anchor the Saints’ new 3-4 defensive scheme. New Orleans had a dismal 2024 against the run, surrendering a whopping 141.4 rushing yards per game—second-worst in the NFL. Bullard’s run defense grade of 63.4 (45th league-wide) outshines the Saints’ current interior linemen, including Khalen Saunders (75th), Nathan Shepard (106th), and Bryan Bresee (114th). His ability to hold the line could be a game-changer as the Saints aim to shore up their porous defense.

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Drafted in the third round (72nd overall) by the Chicago Bears in 2016, Bullard has carved out a journeyman career with stops at the Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, and Atlanta Falcons. His durability and versatility have kept him in demand, and now he’s poised to make an impact in the Big Easy.

Adding intrigue to the signing, Bullard reunites with Brandon Staley, the Saints’ new defensive coordinator. Staley, who served as the linebackers coach for the Bears in 2017 during Bullard’s tenure, brings a familiar presence to the locker room. Fresh off a stint as the San Francisco 49ers assistant head coach, Staley is tasked with reviving a Saints defense that ranked 20th in scoring and a dismal 30th in total yards allowed (379.9 per game) last season. Bullard’s experience and workmanlike approach align perfectly with Staley’s vision for a tougher, more disciplined unit.

With 194 career tackles (105 solo), 6.5 sacks, and eight passes defended, Bullard is no stranger to making plays. His visit with the Saints in June hinted at this move, and now, with veteran players reporting to training camp on Wednesday, he’s expected to vie for significant snaps in New Orleans’ revamped defense.

As the Saints gear up for a critical season, Bullard’s signing sends a clear message: they’re all-in on fixing their defensive woes. Could this be the spark that ignites a turnaround for New Orleans in the competitive NFC? Fans will be watching closely as Bullard takes the field with his new squad.