Saints Add Key Players with New Contracts Ahead of Upcoming Season

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The New Orleans Saints announced multiple roster updates this week, signing free agents and extending the contract of a promising young defensive end as the team prepares for the upcoming NFL season.

On March 13, Saints Executive Vice President and General Manager Mickey Loomis revealed that the team has agreed to terms with unrestricted free agent center/guard Will Clapp on a one-year contract. Clapp, 6-foot-5 and weighing 314 pounds, returns to New Orleans after previously serving the team from 2018 to 2021.

Clapp, originally drafted by the Saints in 2018 as a seventh-round pick from LSU, has played a total of 66 regular-season games and started 22 times across multiple positions on the offensive line. In his career, he has contributed to four postseason contests with New Orleans and other teams.

Last season with the Buffalo Bills, Clapp primarily operated as a backup on the interior offensive line, starting in the team’s regular-season finale and participating in both playoff games. He is known for his versatility, previously starting in 11 games at center for the Los Angeles Chargers during the 2023 season.

“Will has proven himself as a reliable asset for our offensive line over the years,” Loomis stated. “His experience and versatility will bolster our depth as we head into a new season.”

In another significant move for the organization, the Saints also confirmed the signing of free agent tight end Jack Stoll on the same day. Stoll, at 6-foot-4 and 247 pounds, is a four-year NFL veteran who was originally signed by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 after going undrafted. Over his career with the Eagles and Miami Dolphins, Stoll has played in 61 games, contributing 22 receptions for 193 yards and proving to be a strong blocking presence.

“Jack’s skills as a blocker were crucial to the Eagles ranking among the league’s top rushing teams during his tenure,” Loomis commented. “We believe he will add depth to our tight end group.”

On March 11, Loomis announced that the Saints also agreed to a three-year contract extension for defensive end Chase Young. Young, 6-foot-5 and 264 pounds, was the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and has quickly established himself as one of the league’s top talents.

In five seasons, Young has recorded 131 tackles, 22 sacks, and made a name for himself with significant contributions in postseason play. Pro Football Focus noted he finished last season with 66 quarterback pressures, ranking seventh among edge defenders.

“Chase has a rare combination of skill and drive that sets him apart,” Loomis said. “His performance with us last season was instrumental, and we’re excited to secure him for the future.”

As the Saints look to bolster their roster ahead of the new season, these player signings and contract extensions highlight the team’s commitment to building a competitive squad for both the present and the future.