In a move to bolster their pass rush, the New Orleans Saints have made an agreement to sign veteran pass-rusher Jason Pierre-Paul to their practice squad, according to a team spokesperson. This acquisition comes after Pierre-Paul’s recent announcement that he still has much to offer on the field, despite rumors of his retirement. The 34-year-old has not played a game this season but had a respectable performance in the 2020 season with the Baltimore Ravens, where he recorded three sacks in 14 games. With the Saints’ pass rush ranking 26th in the NFL with only 18 sacks, this addition is a much-needed boost for the team.
The Need for a Pass Rusher
The Saints have been actively searching for solutions to improve their pass rush, which has struggled throughout the season. In an effort to address this issue, they recently signed defensive end Jordan Willis to the practice squad. However, the collective performance of their defensive ends has been lackluster, with just 7 sacks between them. Additionally, second-round pick Isaiah Foskey is currently sidelined due to an injury, further depleting the team’s pass rush capabilities. Carl Granderson, the team leader in sacks with 5.5, has only managed to record a single sack in the previous four games. Meanwhile, Cameron Jordan, at 34 years old, has contributed just two sacks. The addition of Jason Pierre-Paul brings experience, skill, and depth to the Saints’ pass rush, which could prove vital in turning their fortunes around.
A Proven Performer
Jason Pierre-Paul’s career statistics speak for themselves. A first-round pick for the New York Giants in 2010, he became a feared pass-rusher, earning three Pro Bowl selections. Most recently, in 2020, he showcased his abilities with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl. Throughout his career, Pierre-Paul has amassed an impressive 94.5 sacks. Despite his age, he has maintained a respectable level of production, recording 5.5 sacks over the past two seasons with the Ravens and the Buccaneers. With such a track record, the Saints can expect Pierre-Paul to make a significant impact on their pass rush.
The New Orleans Saints’ acquisition of Jason Pierre-Paul to their practice squad reflects their commitment to address their struggling pass rush. With Pierre-Paul’s signing, they have added a proven defensive talent who brings experience, skill, and a relentless drive to succeed. As the Saints aim to improve their ranking in sacks, Pierre-Paul’s presence will undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost. With his arrival, the team hopes to see an uptick in their defensive performance and a resurgence in their ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. Only time will tell if this move will prove successful, but for now, the Saints and their fans can remain hopeful for a stronger and more formidable defense.
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