The offseason is a time for reunions. Many players return to a prior franchise during free agency when given the option. For the New Orleans Saints, a former wideout opened that particular door during a media opportunity recently. It’s an idea that the Saints could look into as the preseason approaches.
In an interview with Nick Underhill and Mike Triplett of NOFNetwork, a former Saints pass catcher made a major reveal.
Willie Snead wants to return to the Saints
Willie Snead is hoping he gets a chance to finish his career in New Orleans. pic.twitter.com/ud4gGYt7r4
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) July 16, 2024
“If that black and gold starts calling, I would love to retire in those colors, if anything – because that’s where I started. It would only seem fitting and right to finish there, if you get what I’m saying.” — Snead
Snead leaped onto the NFL scene in 2015 with the Saints with 69 receptions for 984 yards back in 2015. He was a consistent downfield target for the black and gold. He followed up that campaign with another strong one in 2016 when he totaled 72 receptions and 895 yards.
Snead hasn’t seen that sort of NFL success since he left New Orleans, but he has stayed in the loop around the league. Snead has played for the Baltimore Ravens, Las Vegas Raiders, the San Francisco 49ers since departing the Saints org.
Accordingly, his recent time in SF means he does have a connection to Saints’ new OC Klint Kubiak. The play-caller for the Saints may have some interest in him, knowing his skillset and interest in coming back.
Bringing Snead back could legitimately be on the table for New Orleans.
Entering training camp, only nine wideouts are on the roster.
Last year, the Saints carried twelve into camp. There could be some additions on the way in the coming weeks, and we will see if Snead is among them. Only time will tell.
Regardless, it’s nice to see a former Saints player proving how much New Orleans means to them quite awhile after playing for them. He’d love to retire as a Saint.