With the tight end depth being minimal, the Saints went out and signed Nick Vannett to a three year deal. After spending 6 seasons in the NFL, four of them with Seattle, one season with Pittsburgh, and one season in Denver, the tight end found himself a new home only two days after being released by the Broncos.
After losing a player like Josh Hill who plays the tight end role as almost another offensive lineman, the Saints looked for his replacement.
Vannett has been used as a primary blocker in each offensive scheme he’s been in, as he should because he’s good at it. We may have lost Josh Hill, but Vannett could essentially be a younger version of Hill.
Vannett is the guy who will set the edge and get that last block on the defender so the ball carrier scores/makes a big play. He’s the kind of tight end who will win his 1-on-1 blocking matchups on the outside. That’s the kind of player who Sean Payton utilizes in his offense, which is why he was signed in New Orleans.
So what does this do for Adam Trautman?
First thing is that Adam Trautman will still be the starter. This move was for depth and to help benefit the team’s run and pass blocking. That doesn’t mean this won’t help Adam Trautman’s development.
While Vannett isn’t the biggest name or has the big number stats, he’s a veteran who will help develop Adam Trautman. Noah Fant after spending one season with Vannett improved in almost every category. His receptions increased by 22, yards increased by 111 yards, and the touchdowns stayed the same at three.
Trautman’s growth as a blocker will improve, and it is already at a high level. This signing may not seem significant at first, but it’s an absolutely great move by Sean Payton and the front office.
Written By Kadin Janisch
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