Saints safety J.T. Gray released
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J.T. Gray #48 of the New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints shocked their fans and several players by releasing long-time special teams captain J.T. Gray. Gray, a three-time All-Pro and 2021 Pro Bowler, had anchored the Saints’ coverage units since joining the roster as an undrafted free agent in 2018.
Head coach Kellen Moore acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, calling releasing Gray “one of the hardest things so far this year.” Moore denied that Gray’s injured hamstring was a factor, citing roster flexibility. “With the roster management part of this thing over the course of the season and throughout the next few weeks, there’s a lot of challenges associated with that. It was a really tough one for us to do.”
The release frees about $2.6 million in cap space but also leaves nearly $1 million in dead-money charges.
Gray’s Impact on the Field
During his seven years in New Orleans, Gray became one of the most consistent special teams players in the NFL. He finished with 93 career special teams tackles, two blocked punts, a forced fumble, and three fumble recoveries. He also contributed 14 defensive tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a pass breakup on defense.
Gray’s production in 2024 was among the best in the league. He led all players in special teams stops and was named second-team All-Pro for his efforts. His presence provided both consistency on the field and leadership in the locker room for a team that needed both.
Reaction Inside and Outside the Locker Room
The Saints’ decision drew strong reactions. Running back Alvin Kamara took to X and posted a blunt “Wtf,” which quickly went viral among Saints fans and media outlets. That three-letter post captured the surprise felt across the locker room.
The Saints may have made a sensible financial move, but they risk creating a leadership void. Gray’s reliability and energy on coverage units will be difficult to replace. His release also signals that the new coaching staff under Moore is willing to make unpopular moves to reshape the roster.
Practice Squad Additions
New Orleans acted quickly to bolster depth following Gray’s departure. The team added linebacker Eku Leota and defensive lineman Coziah Izzard to the practice squad, according to team transaction reports. The Saints also signed Tommy Mellott, a versatile quarterback and wide receiver out of Montana State.
“Mellott has drawn comparisons to Saints star Taysom Hill due to his ability to play multiple positions,” wrote Patrick McAvoy of Sports Illustrated. His signing suggests the Saints still value flexible athletes who can impact special teams and provide situational options on offense.
What This Means for New Orleans
The decision to release Gray could be a defining one. New Orleans is aiming to balance the salary cap while investing in younger talent. The move may sting in the short term, especially for a locker room that respected Gray’s leadership, but it also opens opportunities for new players to carve out roles.
If they deliver, the Saints could offset the loss of their captain. If not, the gamble could prove costly for a coach trying to establish his identity in New Orleans.