Not that there was any doubt, but Pete Werner is going to be around with the New Orleans Saints for a long time. The team made that official on Thursday, signing the linebacker to a three-year extension worth more than $25 million. He’s now set to be with the team through the 2027 season.
This is a day that seemed inevitable after Werner broke on to the scene for New Orleans as a rookie. As he improved each year, it was clear he’d be a key piece of the New Orleans defense moving forward.
Saints LB Pete Werner signed a three-year contract extension worth over $25 million, including $17.5 million guaranteed, per sources. The deal ties Werner to the Saints through the 2027 season. pic.twitter.com/LdrOdyMmC3
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 8, 2024
Saints sign Pete Werner to a three-year extension
Selected in the second round of the 2021 Draft out of Ohio State, Werner played in 15 games as a rookie, starting eight. In those 15 games, he recorded 62 tackles with four for a loss. Year two, was when he really made his name, starting 11 of the 12 games he played, recording 80 tackles, three for a loss, and two forced fumbles.
Last season, Werner’s numbers increased to 93 tackles with four for a loss and half a sack, and he also recorded an interception, but he didn’t look as good as he did in year two. He struggled a bit against the pass and in the run, and while he wasn’t necessarily bad, everyone knew he could be better. Because of that, there was a little concern, and the Saints even brought in Wille Gay to compete with Werner.
So far, Werner has responded and he has been having an outstandimg camp. That’s likely a big reason why the team was able to get this deal done. Now, Werner will prepare for a 2024 season with one of the best linebacker units in the NFL. With Demario Davis currently 35, and Gay only signed to a one-year deal, Werner is the unquestioned future of the defense at linebacker.
