The New Orleans Saints have been hit hard by injuries this season, particularly with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed ruled out for the year due to a knee injury. To strengthen their offense, the Saints have signed former Kansas City Chiefs receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who was recently let go by the Buffalo Bills. This signing was first reported by NFL insider Ian Rapoport.
Before finalizing the deal, Saints head coach Dennis Allen expressed enthusiasm about Valdes-Scantling’s potential contributions, noting his size and speed. “He’s played in our league and fits some of the things we might need, especially with Shaheed’s loss,” Allen said.
Valdes-Scantling’s addition is crucial, especially as the Saints are already facing a depleted roster. Alongside Shaheed, Chris Olave is in concussion protocol, and quarterback Derek Carr is out with an oblique injury. Additionally, tight end Taysom Hill is sidelined with a rib injury, center Erik McCoy is dealing with a groin issue, guard Cesar Ruiz has a knee injury, and guard Lucas Patrick has a chest injury.
With a current record of 2-5 and coming off a loss to the Denver Broncos, the Saints are set to face the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on Sunday. Valdes-Scantling, now in his seventh NFL season, previously played six games for the Bills this year, catching two passes for a total of 26 yards. Originally drafted by the Green Bay Packers, he also had a role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVIII victory, catching a touchdown pass from Patrick Mahomes. Over his career, he has started 60 games, amassing 3,181 yards and 16 touchdowns on 188 receptions.B
