Deion Jones Signs With Saints, Completes NFC South Tour

The New Orleans Saints signed veteran linebacker Deion Jones to a one-year contract through the 2026 NFL season, bringing the New Orleans native back to his hometown. Terms beyond the deal's duration were not disclosed.

Jones was born and raised in New Orleans, attending Jesuit High School, where he played three seasons of football. He went on to play college ball for the LSU Tigers before entering the NFL draft.

The Atlanta Falcons selected Jones in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft. He became a starting middle linebacker and a key piece of their defense. He later played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With the Saints signing, Jones has now played for all four NFC South franchises.

Jones, born Nov. 4, 1994, brings eight NFL seasons of experience to New Orleans. His familiarity with NFC South opponents gives the Saints an immediate edge in game planning. His family were die-hard Saints fans, making the homecoming personal as well as professional.

The one-year structure lets the Saints evaluate Jones' fit without a long-term commitment—a standard approach when adding veteran depth. For Jones, it is a return to the team he grew up watching.

Jones was born and raised in New Orleans, attending Jesuit High School, where he played three seasons of football. He went on to play college ball for the LSU Tigers before entering the NFL draft.

The one-year structure lets the Saints evaluate Jones' fit without a long-term commitment—a standard approach when adding veteran depth. For Jones, it is a return to the team he grew up watching.