New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton announced that the team made three roster moves Saturday, including the release of veteran wide receiver Rishard Matthews. Matthews signed shortly before training camp and had a real shot to make the team, but Payton noted that, “It’s not for everyone,” and that Matthews left the team of his own volition. The Saints released Matthews with a “left squad” designation.
In addition to Matthews’ release, the Saints placed backup tackle Ulrick John on injured reserve and waived rookie tight end Jake Powell. John went down with a lower-leg injury during the preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings, and Powell was signed last week after incumbent tight ends Alize Mack and Garrett Griffin went down in practice. The team added veteran A.J. Derby a few days later, and he played well in the preseason game despite having little time to prepare.
Payton added that the team will bring in free agents to try out for the now-vacant roster spots later in the week; training camp practices open to the public will resume on Monday, Aug. 12.
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