The New Orleans Saints made a big pickup from the XFL on Monday by signing defensive back Deatrick Nichols to a one-year contract, adding a versatile cover corner with experience in the slot. Nichols is known for his knack for making big plays (he led the league with three interceptions in its first five weeks), which he credits to meticulous film study.
Nichols and teammate Cody Brown each intercepted Dallas Renegades quarterback Landry Jones early in their game, prompting a sideline interview shared by the FOX Sports broadcast. Brown said that they had noticed some cues on Jones’ previous game tape that put them in the right position, and Nichols agreed, saying, “Just like he said, (we’ve been) watching film since last Sunday, and letting plays come to us.”
Later in the game, Nichols again put himself in the right spot at the right time to intercept Jones one more time. It’s something he’s had a gift for since his college days at Southern Florida, which the USF Bulls official Twitter account proudly shared in their own highlight reel of Nichols’ best moments. See it for yourself to get an idea of the kind of talent the Saints are adding:
