The Saints are signing veteran linebacker Kiko Alonso to join the linebacking core of Demario Davis and Pete Werner. According to Ian Rapoport, Alonso hasn’t played since 2019, but is in shape and the Saints will be giving him a shot given his familiarity with the organization.
Reunion: Former #Saints LB Kiko Alonso worked out for New Orleans this morning and is expected to sign, source said. He hasn’t played since 2019, but is in shape and the Saints will take a shot given his familiarity.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 4, 2022
Before being traded to San Francisco in 2020, Alonso spent time in New Orleans in 2019. The former Saint played 13 games for the Saints during the 2019 regular season, but suffered a torn ACL in the playoffs. In that season, Alonso recorded 31 tackles for the black and gold. He hasn’t appeared on the field since tearing his ACL in the Saints playoff loss to the Vikings in that 2019 season.
Alonso broke out in a standout rookie season in 2013 and received Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Alonso started his career out with the Buffalo Bills, before suffering the first of two ACL tears as a pro. The injury would limit his appearance on the field for the 2014 season. Alonso would be traded to Philadelphia during the offseason leading up to the 2015 season.
Alonso would rack up 43 tackles, one interception and one pass deflection in 11 starts. He would be on the move again as Philadelphia traded him to the Miami Dolphins heading into the 2016 season. Alonso racked up 115 tackles, four pass deflections, two interceptions and one touchdown.
As long as Alonso can remain healthy, he should serve a key role in the Saint’s linebacking core. Alonso has shown some bursts on the field at times with his ability to have a nose for the football. Alonso will hope to make his reunion with the Saints worthwhile.