The Saints are wasting no time getting their offseason ducks in a row, and they just made a move that brings both continuity and upside to their secondary. Safety Julian Blackmon has signed a one-year contract extension with New Orleans, keeping a versatile and experienced piece in Brandon Staley’s defense for 2026.
Let’s break down what this means for the Saints and why Blackmon’s return could be more than just a depth move-it could be a foundational one.
A Proven Playmaker with Experience
Blackmon, a six-year NFL veteran, has quietly put together a solid career since being drafted 85th overall by the Colts in 2020. Across stints with Indianapolis and New Orleans, he’s played in 67 regular-season games with 63 starts, racking up 300 tackles (224 solo), 10 interceptions, 22 pass breakups, and a handful of forced fumbles and recoveries. He’s also contributed on special teams and even found the end zone once on a pick-six.
In 2024, Blackmon was a key piece of the Colts’ defense, starting all 16 games he played and tying for the team lead in interceptions and takeaways. That year, he posted 86 tackles, three picks, and a fumble recovery-numbers that speak to both his reliability and ability to create turnovers. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed, especially by a defensive mind like Brandon Staley.
A Familiar Face for Staley
Staley, now running the Saints' defense, has long been a fan of Blackmon’s game. That admiration dates back to their time on opposite sidelines when Staley was with the Rams.
During the 2025 training camp, Blackmon made a strong impression, including one highlight-reel interception that had Staley shouting, “I’ve been waiting 5 years for that.” That’s not just coach-speak-that’s a coach seeing a player he’s believed in make a play he’s envisioned for years.
Unfortunately, Blackmon’s 2025 season was cut short after just one game due to a shoulder injury. He started the season opener and recorded seven tackles and a pass breakup before being sidelined. Despite the setback, the Saints clearly saw enough to believe he’s still a key part of their plans moving forward.
The Safety Room Is Getting Crowded-In a Good Way
With Blackmon back in the fold, the Saints’ safety group is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing position battles heading into 2026. He joins Justin Reid and Jonas Sanker, giving New Orleans three capable starters at the back end. While it’s too early to say who will emerge as the top two, the trio gives Staley flexibility, depth, and a variety of skill sets to mix and match based on matchups.
If cornerback Alontae Taylor departs in free agency, there’s even a scenario where all three safeties see the field together in nickel or dime packages. But even if Taylor stays, having three starting-caliber safeties is a good problem to have-especially in today’s NFL, where hybrid looks and disguised coverages are becoming the norm.
A Smart, Timely Move by the Saints
This extension might not grab national headlines, but it’s the kind of move that smart teams make in January. The Saints are locking in a player who knows the system, has a history with the defensive coordinator, and brings both production and leadership to the locker room.
Blackmon’s return doesn’t just fill a roster spot-it solidifies a key part of the Saints’ defensive identity heading into 2026. With the offseason just getting started, New Orleans is already showing they’re serious about building a unit that can compete-and Blackmon is clearly one of “their guys.”