New Orleans Saints Breaking News: Stephone Anthony Traded to Dolphins

As reported by multiple sources early Tuesday evening, the New Orleans Saints have traded linebacker Stephone Anthony to the Miami Dolphins in return for an undisclosed 2018 draft choice.

Anthony, the 31st overall selection out of Clemson by New Orleans in the 2015 draft, had not played since the 2nd game this preseason due to a reported high ankle sprain. He led the team in tackles in 2015, setting a team record for rookies, while adding a sack, an interception, and returning a fumble recovery for a touchdown. Last year was a major struggle for Anthony, starting just 3 games amid rumors that he struggled diagnosing the team's defensive playbook, along with reading opposing offenses. Some reports had him on the roster bubble, and that the Saints were reportedly trying to trade him, as cuts were approaching this preseason. Although he made the 53-man roster entering the season, Anthony was not active during either of the first two games, even with the Saints defensive struggles.

Anthony joins a Dolphin squad thin at linebacker, with the news earlier on Tuesday that the team had suspended free agent acquisition Lawrence Timmons for an indefinite period due for undisclosed reasons. The Saints had obtained the 31st pick used on Anthony from Seattle as part of the compensation received when they traded tight end Jimmy Graham to the Seahawks prior to the 2015 draft.