New Orleans Saints offensive lineman Nick Saldiveri has struggled to stay healthy throughout his first three seasons. He suffered a calf injury during offseason workouts in his rookie season, later suffering a season-ending shoulder injury that required surgery, limiting him to four games and 18 offensive snaps.
Saldiveri’scalf injury flared up during training camp in his second season, and he played through a shoulder injury before suffering a season-ending knee injury in December after playing 11 games, with six starts, and totaling 344 snaps. The former fourth-round pick sat out the 2025 season due to the recurring knee injury, and the Saints placed him on season-ending injured reserve in August.
The New Orleans Saints shut down former 4th-round pick
New Orleans Saints, Nick Saldiveri
Aug 13, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Nick Saldiveri (64) looks on against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Nick Saldiveri is still dealing with the persistent knee injury, prompting the Saints to place him on the season-ending reserve/PUP list on Tuesday. According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2, the team has waived the former fourth-round pick with a failed physical designation. Saldiveri will be subject to waivers, and if a team claims him, they would inherit a one-year $1.145 million contract.
#Saints waived Nick Saldiveri with failed physical designation
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) May 12, 2026
Due to his ongoing knee injury, he is likely to clear waivers and become an unrestricted free agent, potentially sitting out this season. It remains unclear whether he will retire during the offseason due to the constant wear and tear on his body.