DONE DEAL: New Orleans Saints Formally Announce the Signing of Veteran Wide Receiver Marques Valdes-Scantling.
In a major development that could bolster their offensive arsenal, the New Orleans Saints have officially signed veteran wide receiver Marques Valdes-Scantling. The former Kansas City Chiefs wideout, known for his deep-threat abilities and speed, was a prized free agent this offseason. Valdes-Scantling brings experience, versatility, and a proven track record, which could be a game-changer for the Saints as they look to make a playoff push this season.
The Saints formally announced the deal just a few minutes ago, confirming rumors that had been swirling for weeks regarding their interest in the veteran receiver. Valdes-Scantling, who has spent the past two seasons with the Chiefs after a four-year stint with the Green Bay Packers, will now don the black and gold in New Orleans.
For the Saints, this signing couldn’t have come at a better time. Despite some strong performances, their wide receiver depth has been a concern due to a string of injuries and inconsistency. With Michael Thomas struggling to stay healthy in recent years and young stars like Chris Olave still developing, New Orleans was in need of a reliable veteran presence in their receiving corps.
Valdes-Scantling, often referred to as MVS, offers the Saints precisely that. Standing at 6’4″ and possessing exceptional speed, he has consistently stretched defenses with his ability to get behind defensive backs and make big plays. During his tenure with the Packers, Valdes-Scantling developed a reputation as one of Aaron Rodgers’ favorite deep targets. He continued to play that role in Kansas City, where he helped stretch the field for Patrick Mahomes in their high-powered offense.
In New Orleans, Valdes-Scantling will have the opportunity to work with quarterback Derek Carr, who signed with the Saints earlier this year. Carr’s ability to push the ball downfield meshes well with Valdes-Scantling’s strengths, and the two could quickly develop a potent connection. The signing suggests that head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr. are serious about giving Carr the weapons needed to succeed in his first season with the team.
At 29 years old, Valdes-Scantling has amassed considerable experience in his six seasons in the NFL, with over 2,700 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns. He’s not only a deep threat but also a player who can contribute in various offensive schemes. His size makes him a mismatch for smaller defensive backs, while his speed enables him to excel in both vertical passing games and underneath routes.
Though Valdes-Scantling’s numbers don’t always tell the full story—he’s often played in offenses loaded with talent, where opportunities can be limited—his impact has been undeniable. He played a key role in the Chiefs’ 2023 Super Bowl run, with crucial performances in the postseason, including a standout game in the AFC Championship.
For the Saints, this signing could be a turning point in their bid to return to the playoffs. With a quarterback who thrives on deep passes, a defense that ranks among the best in the league, and now a veteran wide receiver with a proven track record, New Orleans has positioned itself as a strong contender in the NFC South.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting Valdes-Scantling’s first appearance in a Saints uniform, hoping that his speed and playmaking ability will bring a new dimension to the offense.