Getty Image / Gregory Fisher
Despite having absolutely no cap space, the New Orleans Saints have been busy this offseason.
First, they addressed their quarterback situation.
After deciding that Jameis Winston wasn’t the answer at the position last season and inexplicably sticking with Andy Dalton despite the team’s losing record and struggling offense, they brought in somebody new to play QB.
They gave Derek Carr a hefty contract to take over under center.
Since that move, there have been rumors the team is working on a contract extension with Michael Thomas after he missed nearly all of the last 3 seasons.
Now they have actually agreed to a contract extension with another one of their offensive weapons.
Today, Juwan Johnson’s agent announced that he had signed an extension with the New Orleans Saints.
Congratulations to our client & restricted free agent Juwan Johnson ( @juwanplease ) for agreeing to a new contract with the @Saints that covers the upcoming 2023 season as well as the 2024 season. Proud of you my guy!
— AJ Vaynerchuk (@ajv) March 11, 2023
NFL insider Tom Pellisero revealed that the new deal is for $12 million over 2 years.
#Saints TE Juwan Johnson’s new two-year deal is worth $12 million, including $8.5M fully guaranteed, per source.
Johnson would’ve been an RFA, so in essence, this is a one-year, $9.373 million extension on top of the low tender. Max value $14.5M over two years with escalator. pic.twitter.com/NqLmoIMYqc
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 11, 2023
Johnson had the best season of his career in 2022. He set career highs across the board with 42 catches for 508 yards and 7 touchdowns.
The 6’4″ tight end will be a huge target for Carr, who developed a knack for throwing to his tight end during his time playing alongside Jared Cook and Darren Waller with the Raiders.
It looks like the Saints are going to make sure Carr has plenty of weapons around him next season to make the transition to New Orleans a smooth one.