By Ross Jackson
NEW ORLEANS, La. — Around the NFL, June 2 marks not only a date for teams to offload contracts, but look to fill their newly opened roster spots as well. The New Orleans Saints are set to open up at least two roster spots soon with the retirements of former quarterback Derek Carr and former tackle Ryan Ramczyk expected to be processed as early as Monday.
Once that happens, the Saints could then add a pair of players to their lineup and per reports, that work is already under way.
Per NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo, the Saints are set to host nine-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard.
Most recently with the Minnesota Vikings, the defensive lineman has appeared in all 17 games in each two seasons, starting every game last year.
Connections With The Coaching Staff
Bullard has spent time with both Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley (2017, 2018) and EDGEs coach Jay Rodgers (2016-2018) in Chicago as members of the Bears.
#Bears rookie DL Jonathan Bullard.. Eating Barnidge’s lunch! Big fan of Bullard at UF – looks to be adjusting well pic.twitter.com/bQiMqWCrgB
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) September 7, 2016
Staley was the outside linebackers coach for the Bears while Rodgers served as the defensive line coach.
Versatile Play
During those years, Bullard lined up from defensive tackle to defensive end, so versatility was very much a part of his deployment.
Over his nine seasons, the former Florida Gator piled up 221 total tackles, 28 for a loss and 6.5 sacks without ever missing more than three tackles in a single season.
Screw it, Jonathan Bullard 2023 highlights.
Let’s get excited about all the guys we bring back. pic.twitter.com/DTXLWKnFVx
— Matt Fries (@FriesFootball) March 13, 2024
Listed at 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds, Bullard can move up and down the defensive line and has the experience to contribute early if signed. The Saints already have 16 defensive lineman on their roster with seven classified as defensive tackles.
Chances To Make The Roster
Bullard would join a crowded room, but he’d also be joining a team with a new coaching staff and therefore, no alliances to incumbent players. It’s a good situation for him, especially with previously existing connections to the coaching staff. His name will be one to watch out for as the Saints eventually open up some roster space.
