Saints sign safety Julian Blackmon after Tyrann Mathieu's exit, spark debate online: ‘Can't replace…’

Julian Blackmon joins New Orleans Saints as defensive back, replacing retired Tyrann Mathieu.

Published on: Jul 23, 2025, 17:53:16 IST

By HT News Desk

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The New Orleans Saints were forced to think quickly on their feet when defensive back Tyrann Mathieu shockingly announced his surprise retirement from the sport on Tuesday (July 22). The team has now decided to sign a new player, Julian Blackmon, in his place.

Ian Rapoport, an NFL insider, broke the news on Tuesday evening (July 22). “The #Saints have found their replacement for the Honey Badger, as they are signing #Colts FA S Julian Blackmon, sources say. Tyrann Mathieu’s retirement today led to a pre-camp roster move,” he wrote.

A look at Julian Blackmon’s NFL career

26-year-old Blackmon is now entering his sixth season in this league. His previous experience playing with the Indianapolis Colts is ending with 300 career tackles, 10 interceptions, 21 passes defensed, and two forced fumbles in 66 games played (62 starts).

He and Justin Simmons were the only two safeties to rank on Gregg Rosenthal's ‘Top 101 free agents available’ list. When it came to picking their latest team addition, the Saints opted to go for the younger option of the two, perhaps with the intention to help him slot in next to Justin Reid in the defensive outfield.

Last season, Colts played 874 snaps at free safety, 175 in the box, and 50 in the slot, compared to Mathieu's 700/268/57. Considering how he played with a torn rotator cuff last year after being injured in the Colts’ season opener, Blackmon may prove just as sturdy as Mathieu against the run.

Mixed reaction from Saints fans

Fans took to social media to share their reactions to the announcement. “Everything the Saints do is so pathetic,” wrote one user. “Cant replace the leadership or knowledge. But the Saints did replace the production while getting younger Last two season,” another said.

“Julian will do great things with Saints!” a third noted, while a fourth chimed in, “Good move grabbing a talented free agent like Blackmon.” “He's solid, should have been picked up already... Won't be all pro but you can do worse as a starter,” yet another shared.

By averting the crisis on day one itself, the Saints will no longer be forced into pushing third-round rookie Jonas Sanker onto the field unless he proves ready for it during training camp.

By Stuti Gupta

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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