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New Orleans Saints Boost Linebacking Unit with Free Agent Signing

The Saints add speed and athleticism to a linebacking corps in need of it by signing Demario Davis.

Buffalo Bills v New York Jets Photo by Elsa/Getty Images

The New Orleans Saints added speed and aggressiveness to their linebacking unit on Wednesday afternoon, by signing former New York Jet Demario Davis in free agency. Davis, a 3rd round pick in 2012 from Arkansas State, was signed to a 3-yr. contract worth a reported 24 million, with 18 million in guarantees. He has started 79 of the last 80 games, primarily from the outside. The 29-yr. old Davis had his best season a year ago, when he led the Jets with 135 tackles and 5 sacks, including 13 tackles for loss and a fumble recovery.

Miami Dolphins v New York Jets Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images

Davis will most likely man the outside spot on the strongside most often, where he gives coordinator Dennis Allen's defense a much-needed athletic upgrade. He teams with Craig Robertson, 2017 rookie Alex Anzalone, and 2017 free agent signees A.J. Klein and Manti Te'o, as New Orleans continues to revamp a rapidly improving defense.