Saints sign Donovan Peoples-Jones after rookie minicamp tryout

The New Orleans Saints needed a bigger bodied wide receiver, and they may have found one if Donovan Peoples-Jones can turn back the clock. Per NewOrleans.Football's Nick Underhill, Peoples-Jones was impressive enough during rookie minicamp to earn a contract from the Saints.

While rookie minicamp, hence the name, is primarily about the rookies, there are also veterans who attend on a tryout basis. Peoples-Jones was one of those guys, and many were excited about his inclusion because of the name recognition and position.

It's going to take more than just being a name people may be familiar with in order to make the roster. Louisiana Sports Dot Net's Ross Jackson mentioned Kellen Moore was complimentary of Peoples-Jones' effort and performance.

What role can he play for the Saints?

As previously mentioned, the Saints need a big bodied wide receiver. The wide receiver room is headlined by Brandin Cooks, Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. None of those men are taller than 6 feet tall or weigh more than 190 pounds.

Donovan Peoples-Jones is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 204 pounds. He fits a mold the Saints are in need of. Most people point towards Keenan Allen as an option in New Orleans. Grabbing Allen feels like the dream scenario, and this signing wouldn't take that option off the table.

What the signing does is add another player to the mix who can take on that role. The same can be said about Bub Means and Kevin Austin Jr.. They're bigger receivers already on the roster. The Saints need that mold and stockpiling receivers who can take on that role is the best route entering offseason team activities.

Where has Donovan Peoples-Jones been?

The wide receiver was a seldomly used deep threat out in his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns. His production steadily rose and had his first big season in 2022. Peoples-Jones recorded 61 receptions for 829 receiving yards and three touchdowns.

Interestingly, the Browns decided to trade away Peoples-Jones to the Detroit Lions in the the middle of 2023. Essentially, he hasn't been discussed since. After a career season, he was barely target by the Browns before the trade and only recorded five receptions with the Lions. Last year, he was a member of the Lions practice squad..