Saints Trade Defensive Tackle Khalen Saunders to Jaguars for Center Luke Fortner

What's Happening?

The New Orleans Saints have executed a trade involving veteran defensive tackle Khalen Saunders, sending him to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for center Luke Fortner. This move comes after Saunders, who started in the Saints' recent preseason game against the Jaguars, was listed as a backup to Davon Godchaux. Saunders, 29, has been with the Saints for two seasons following a four-year stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he won two Super Bowl titles. Last season, he recorded 43 tackles, two sacks, and an interception over 13 games. Saunders is in the final year of his contract, with a base salary of $1.3 million. Meanwhile, Fortner, 27, has been a consistent presence for the Jaguars since being drafted in 2022, appearing in all 51 games over his first two seasons. However, he did not start any games last season and is currently on a one-year contract worth $1.150 million. The Saints' acquisition of Fortner addresses their need for depth at the center position following Will Clapp's season-ending foot injury.

Why It's Important?

This trade is significant for both teams as it addresses specific roster needs. For the Saints, acquiring Luke Fortner provides much-needed depth at the center position, which became a priority after losing Will Clapp to injury. This move allows the team to reassign Torricelli Simpkins back to his original position at guard, potentially strengthening their offensive line. For the Jaguars, adding Khalen Saunders bolsters their defensive line with a seasoned player who brings championship experience from his time with the Chiefs. The trade reflects strategic adjustments by both teams as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season, aiming to enhance their competitiveness and address gaps in their rosters.

What's Next?

As the NFL preseason progresses, both teams will likely continue to evaluate their rosters and make further adjustments as needed. The Saints will integrate Fortner into their offensive line, assessing his fit and performance in upcoming games. The Jaguars will look to leverage Saunders' experience and skills to enhance their defensive strategies. Both teams may also explore additional trades or signings to optimize their lineups before the regular season begins. The performance of these players in the remaining preseason games will be crucial in determining their roles and impact on their respective teams.