The New Orleans Saints are signing cornerback Janoris Jenkins to a two-year, $16.75 million extension, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Jenkins, who the Saints claimed off waivers following his release by the New York Giants, was set to count $11.25 million against the team’s salary cap. By agreeing to the new extension, which pushes his contract to a three-year, $27 million deal, Jenkins’ cap hit will drop to $4.05 million this season.
The Giants released the former Pro Bowl cornerback in December for his poor behavior on social media. Following the release, Jenkins celebrated the news, calling it the “best news ever.” He quickly found a home with the Saints and emerged as a strong starter in their secondary. Jenkins deflected two passes and recorded an interception in two games with the Saints and will have a prominent role in their defense for the 2020 season.
New Orleans needed to create cap room after a series of signings that brought in Noah Spence, Deatrick Nichols and Pro Bowl receiver Emmanuel Sanders. At a time when the team is determined to win a Super Bowl before Drew Brees steps away from the game, the Saints are doing everything possible to add talent and stay under the cap.
The battle for the NFC South crown will be fun to watch this season. Between the Saints’ additions and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers landing Tom Brady, these two teams will likely be favored to win the division. One thing is for certain, the head-to-head battle between Brees and Brady will be must-see entertainment.