The New Orleans Saints are adding a big name at defensive tackle, signing New England Patriots free agent Malcom Brown. Brown is a 25-year-old nose tackle specialist, tipping the scales at 6 feet 2, 320 pounds.
He performed well for New England in his four-year career, though his production tailed off in 2018 as he split time with trade acquisition Danny Shelton. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network first reported the signing, and Nick Underhill of the Advocate confirmed it.
Brown’s contract with the Saints runs for three years and will pay out a total of $15 million if he sees the end of it. The guarantees are not yet known. Including the playoffs, Brown has 9.5 sacks, 17 quarterback hits and 16 tackles for loss in his career. His signing closes the door on a return for former Saints starter Tyeler Davison, who should land on his feet in the free agent market.
This move doesn’t answer the question of who will fill in for Sheldon Rankins and David Onyemata at the three-technique defensive tackle spot next to Brown, but it does solidify the line. Look for second-year standout Taylor Stallworth to progress behind Brown on the depth chart.
