The New Orleans Saints have made a long-anticipated move, signing wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport. Valdes-Scantling, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, was previously targeted by the Saints during free agency. Now, they’ve finally landed him.
This signing follows the unfortunate season-ending knee surgery of Rashid Shaheed, one of the league’s rising stars. Like Shaheed, Valdes-Scantling is known for his ability to stretch the field as a deep threat. However, Valdes-Scantling brings a different physical presence, standing at 6-foot-4 with a 78-inch wingspan, compared to the 6-foot Shaheed’s 73-inch wingspan. He’s also a faster player, clocking in at 4.37 seconds in the 40-yard dash during the 2018 NFL Combine.
Despite these impressive physical traits, Valdes-Scantling’s availability raises some concerns. The Kansas City Chiefs released him earlier this year after his on-field performance didn’t justify his contract. He then signed with the Buffalo Bills but was cut after catching just two passes on nine targets over six games. As a result, expectations for his time with the Saints should be managed.
That said, Valdes-Scantling does bring experience to the table. With 11 playoff appearances and 188 career receptions for 3,181 yards and 16 touchdowns before turning 30, he has proven he can contribute at a high level. The Saints clearly see a specific role for him in their offense. Time will tell if this move pays off.
