Mickey Loomis, the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the New Orleans Saints, announced today that former Saints defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins is poised to make a triumphant return to the Big Easy on a lucrative, multi-year contract.
The Return of a Fan Favorite
Rankins, who currently suits up for the New York Jets, was drafted by the Saints with the 12th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. During his five-year tenure in New Orleans,
Rankins established himself as a formidable force on the defensive line, compiling 24.5 sacks, 134 tackles, and 34 tackles for loss.
His impressive performance earned him a reputation as one of the most disruptive interior pass-rushers in the league.
What This Means for the Saints
The impending return of Rankins is expected to significantly bolster the Saints’ defensive line, providing:
– Experienced interior pass-rushing presence to complement Cameron Jordan and David Onyemata
– Run-stopping ability to shore up the Saints’ defense against the run
– Familiarity with the Saints’ system, ensuring a seamless transition
Deal Details
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the Saints are finalizing a 3-year, $25 million contract extension with Rankins, including $10 million guaranteed. The deal also reportedly features incentive-laden bonuses tied to sack totals, tackles for loss, and playoff appearances.
Reaction from Who Dat Nation
News of Rankins’ potential return sent social media into overdrive, with Saints fans ecstatically expressing their approval:
“This is HUGE! Welcome back, Sheldon!” – @WhoDat123
“Our defensive line just got a whole lot deeper! Rankins + Jordan = unstoppable!” – @SaintsFan4Life
“Love this move! Rankins knows our system, and his experience will pay dividends come playoff time.” – @NOLAsFinest
Coaching Staff Weighs In
Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen echoed the sentiments of the Who Dat Nation, praising Rankins’ skillset and fit within the team’s defensive scheme:
“Sheldon brings a level of expertise and physicality that will undoubtedly elevate our defensive line. His familiarity with our system will allow him to hit the ground running.”
Defensive Coordinator Joe Woods added:
“Rankins’ ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and stop the run will be invaluable. We’re thrilled to welcome him back to the Saints family.”
Front Office Insight
Mickey Loomis, the mastermind behind the deal, offered a glimpse into the Saints’ thought process:
“We’ve always valued Sheldon’s contributions to our team. Bringing him back was a priority, and we’re confident he’ll make an immediate impact.”
What’s Next?
As the Saints prepare to welcome Rankins back into the fold, fans can expect an intense training camp battle for starting spots along the defensive line. With Rankins, Jordan, Onyemata, and newcomer Nathan Shepherd vying for snaps, the Saints’ defensive front is poised to become one of the league’s most formidable units.
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