The New Orleans Saints are flying high right now, and after their 45-35 win over the previously undefeated Los Angeles Rams in the Superdome on Sunday afternoon, they just might be the favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. But despite this, there are areas where New Orleans can stand to improve.
One such place is at wide receiver. While Michael Thomas is a star, and Drew Brees can turn just about anyone into a solid pass catcher, having a consistent second receiver to attract a defense’s attention is something the Saints don’t really have right now. As such, New Orleans decided to try and fix this by going out and signing former Pro Bowl receiver Dez Bryant.
It was reported that the two sides had been in negotiations, as Bryant has been looking for a job ever since he was cut by the Dallas Cowboys in April. That came to fruition on Wednesday morning, as Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com reported the deal was done.
Hearing from a source that the Saints have signed Dez Bryant. We’re working to confirm officially.
— Jeff Duncan (@JeffDuncan_) November 7, 2018
Soon after, the news was confirmed by Ian Rapoport of NFL.com and Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Back in the NFL: The #Saints are signing free agent WR Dez Bryant to a 1-year deal, sources tell me and @SlaterNFL. His marathon wait has ended with a landing spot on a playoff team.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 7, 2018
Saints reached agreement with former Cowboys’ WR Dez Bryant, per source. He will sign Thursday.
Bryant is a Saint.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 7, 2018
Bryant may not be as dominant as he was earlier in his career, but 30 year old still has something in the tank. Last season, he caught 69 balls for 838 yards and six touchdowns. Those are hardly dominant numbers, but they would be welcomed on a Saints squad where the second-best receiver so far has been rookie pass catcher Tre’Quan Smith (12 receptions for 214 yards and three scores). While New Orleans has found creative ways to use running back Alvin Kamara in the passing game and veteran tight end Benjamin Watson has been a reliable option, Bryant should help in a big way.
