Keeping some defensive line depth.
The New Orleans Saints have not made any contract agreements with free agents so far, but other moves have still been made. Dante Pettis has been re-signed, Davon Godchaux was traded for, and now, per Josina Anderson, the Saints have given DT Nathan Shepherd a 1-year extension.
I’m told Nate Sheperd has agreed to a 1-year extension with the #Saints, per league source.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 10, 2025
Shepherd may have not have the best season last year, so this may be a bit surprising, but keeping him as a depth piece is wise. Also, with Shepherd’s previous cap number slated to be around $7 million next season, an extension should bring down that number. It will be interesting to see Shepherd’s role in Staley’s scheme, and he does have some history in a 3-4 scheme during his time with the Jets.
With the legal tampering window opening today, the Saints have already traded for DT and extended another. Improving the trenches is an evident focus for this coaching staff, and Nathan Shepherd’s extension should not be the last move regarding the defensive line.