Saints sign veteran safety after Tyrann Mathieu retirement

The New Orleans Saints may have found a viable replacement for All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu in free agent Julian Blackmon.

The New Orleans Saints did not waste any time in finding a possible replacement for star safety Tyrann Mathieu after he announced his retirement on Tuesday.

The 33-year-old Mathieu took to Instagram to share his decision, ending an illustrious 12-year career.

“As I hang up my cleats, I’m filled with gratitude as I close this chapter of my life and officially retire from the game that’s shaped me in every way,” said the three-time Pro Bowler.

“From my first snap in college to my final play in the NFL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing. Football gave me purpose, discipline, and memories that will stay with me forever.”

Saints to quickly fill void by signing veteran safety

Following Tyrann Mathieu‘s sudden retirement announcement earlier Tuesday, the Saints have already found a potential replacement. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the team is signing veteran safety Julian Blackmon. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported earlier Tuesday evening that New Orleans was working to add Blackmon as a Honey Badger replacement.

A former third-round pick, Blackmon was a mainstay in Indy’s secondary over the past five seasons. He started 62 of his 66 games with the Colts, collecting 300 tackles and 21 passes defended. He also hauled in 10 interceptions, including seven between the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The safety did deal with his fair share of injuries, including a torn Achilles in 2021 and shoulder issues in both 2023 and 2024.

Despite his starting experience, the safety hasn’t had the best of luck in free agency. Last year, he garnered interest from the Bills and 49ers before ultimately returning to the Colts on a one-year deal. This offseason, it’s been relatively quiet for the 26-year-old other than a March visit with the Panthers.

Pro Football Focus wasn’t particularly fond of Blackmon’s first three seasons in the NFL, with the site ranking him as a below-average safety. He improved to 38th among 95 qualifiers in 2023, and he had his best career showing (30th of 98) in 2024. He’s generally graded out well for his coverage prowess, and his ability to play multiple roles (including in the box, in the slot, and out wide) should prove to be an asset for his new squad.

The Saints were likely scrambling following Mathieu’s sudden decision to hang up his cleats, leading to Tuesday's signing. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis hinted that the organization could make an addition at the position, although he also expressed confidence in the team’s current options at the position. 2023 fifth-rounder Jordan Howden is the current favorite to start opposite Justin Reid, although Blackmon will join the likes of veterans J.T. Gray and Terrell Burgess as competition for the starting gig.