The New Orleans Saints took a key step to fortify their defense by signing defensive end Jonathan Bullard, as confirmed by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo this past Saturday. Bullard’s recent success with the Minnesota Vikings highlights the Saints’ motivation to strengthen their defensive line ahead of the upcoming NFL season.
Bullard’s Impactful Career and Recent Performance
At 31 years old, Jonathan Bullard comes off a strong 2024 season with the Vikings, where he achieved a personal best of seven tackles for loss. During his three years in Minnesota, Bullard earned recognition as a dominant run-stopper. Before joining the Vikings, his NFL journey included versatile roles with the Atlanta Falcons, Seattle Seahawks, and Arizona Cardinals, demonstrating adaptability across various defensive systems.
Experience Under Saints’ Defensive Coordinator Brandon Staley
Bullard’s career began with the Chicago Bears, spending three seasons there and working under defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, who now holds the same role with the Saints. This shared history with Staley is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into New Orleans’ defense and optimize Bullard’s contributions.
Disruption Over Raw Sack Numbers
Although Bullard’s career sack total stands at 6.5, his true strength lies in disrupting plays behind the line of scrimmage. Of his 28 tackles for loss, 75% targeted running plays, illustrating his effectiveness against ground attacks rather than just pass rushing. The Saints are banking on this attribute to enhance their run defense and overall frontline resilience.
Looking Forward: What Bullard Means for the Saints
With Bullard now part of the defensive roster, the Saints are optimistic about reinforcing their defensive strategy and stopping power. His combination of experience, a proven track record in Minnesota, and familiarity with coordinator Staley’s system positions him as a critical piece in their pursuit of a stronger defensive front. As the season approaches, New Orleans hopes Bullard’s presence will help secure a more competitive edge on defense.