What's Happening?
The New Orleans Saints have signed kicker Tanner Brown to a two-year contract worth $1.97 million, with $36,000 guaranteed. Brown, who will replace Mason Shipley, brings a wealth of experience as a versatile specialist. He began his collegiate career
as a punter at UNLV during the COVID-shortened 2020 season before transferring to Oklahoma State, where he excelled as a kicker. At Oklahoma State, Brown was nearly perfect, missing only one field goal in his final season. Despite going undrafted in 2023, he had brief stints with the Falcons and Rams but did not make an NFL roster. Brown found success in the UFL with the Louisville Kings, earning Special Teams Player of the Year honors. His performance included two field goals of over 60 yards in a single game and a strong showing in the playoffs. Brown's addition to the Saints creates a competitive environment in the team's kicking room as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Why It's Important?
The signing of Tanner Brown is significant for the New Orleans Saints as they aim to strengthen their special teams unit. Brown's proven track record in the UFL, particularly his ability to make long-distance field goals, could provide the Saints with a reliable scoring option in critical game situations. This move reflects the team's strategy to enhance their roster with skilled specialists, potentially impacting their overall performance in the upcoming NFL season. For Brown, this contract represents a crucial opportunity to establish himself in the NFL after previous unsuccessful attempts. The Saints' decision to invest in Brown underscores the importance of special teams in achieving competitive success in the league.
What's Next?
As the Saints head into training camp, Tanner Brown will compete with Charlie Smyth for the starting kicker position. This competition will be closely watched by the coaching staff, as they evaluate Brown's ability to translate his UFL success to the NFL level. The outcome of this competition could influence the team's strategy and roster decisions as they prepare for the 2026 season. Additionally, Brown's performance during training camp and preseason games will be critical in determining his long-term role with the Saints. The team's management will likely monitor his progress to ensure that their investment in him yields the desired results.
