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Saints Trade DT Khalen Saunders to Jaguars for C Luke Fortner After Preseason Tie

The trade will add veteran tackle depth to Jacksonville’s injury-thinned line; once Saunders passes his physical, New Orleans will gain a starting center to plug a roster hole.

Oct 7, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (50) reacts during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
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Nov 26, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (99) on the field against the Atlanta Falcons in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
Oct 7, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (50) reacts after an interceptions during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The Jaguars are set to receive 29-year-old Khalen Saunders, a two-time Super Bowl champ, in exchange for 27-year-old center Luke Fortner, according to reports first circulated by Tom Pelissero and supported by AP, ESPN and Reuters.
  • Saunders, who started Sunday’s 17-17 preseason tie against Jacksonville, highlights how quickly rosters can shift during NFL exhibition play.
  • Jacksonville pursued the veteran tackle after training-camp setbacks left Arik Armstead and Maason Smith sidelined and depleted its interior defensive line.
  • New Orleans deemed Saunders expendable following its switch to a 3-4 defense under Brandon Staley and the addition of Davon Godchaux at defensive tackle.
  • All outlets noted the swap remains subject to Saunders clearing a physical in Jacksonville before teams issue formal confirmations.