:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69022318/usa_today_14978362.0.jpg)
The New Orleans Saints have inked a deal with former Bronco, Steeler, and Seahawks tight end Nick Vannett. The two have reportedly agreed upon a three-year deal, after Vannett was recently released by the Broncos following a 2020 campaign where he appeared in 15 games. Vannett only had 95 yards and a single touchdown in 2020, but his role is more of a blocking tight end, similar to role lost by Josh Hill. Vannett played 34% of the offensive snaps last year for the Denver Broncos who was used mainly as the lead blocking tight end.
Vannet has also lined up as a full-back, and presents a versatile tight end option that Sean Payton will have fun incorporating in the offense. The Saints released blocking tight end Josh Hill to help get under the salary cap earlier this offseason, so Vannett will help fill the void that Hill left, as a solid three-down blocker with good hands. Vannett will now line up with stand-out sophomore tight end Adam Trautman in the offense.
Of note, Vannett attended the Ohio State University, adding to the Buckeye pipeline in New Orleans.
The #Saints are signing TE Nick Vannett to a three-year deal, source says. Released by the #Broncos the other day, Vannett finds a new home quickly.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 25, 2021
His role with the team will be an in-line blocking tight end, adding depth to the tight end room. The Saints also added full-back, Alex Armah, from the Carolina Panthers, adding two solid blockers to a position of need.
Vannett gives the Saints a solid blocker at the inline position. He'll be more of a blocker than a receiving threat, but he has good hands and doesn't drop many passes.
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) March 25, 2021
Team needed someone alongside Trautman. They got him.
We are in phase two of free agency where we could see the Saints start to fill out their roster. There are still many holes left to be filled, and now is the time when you could see the Saints start to make some moves. There are still many mid-tier free agents like Vannett that the Saints can sign to help improve their roster, but it’s just nice to see the Saints finally make another move.
Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on Twitter at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, follow us on Instagram at @SaintsCSC and make sure you’re subscribed to our new YouTube channel.