After working him out earlier today, the Saints have agreed to sign cornerback Sterling Moore, according to Josh Katzenstein of NOLA.com (Twitter links). Per Katzenstein, it’s a one-year deal.
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New Orleans released another veteran corner who excels in the slot just hours ago, as they cut Cortland Finnegan, so Moore-for-Finnegan is essentially a one-for-one switch. And the Saints need all the help they can get in the back end, as after ranking as a historically poor defense in 2015, the club doesn’t have much depth in the secondary. Delvin Breaux had a nice season last year, but fellow starter P.J. Williams has never played in a NFL game. Moore, then, will add some experience while contributing in sub package situations.
Moore, 26, starting nine games at nickel for the Buccaneers in 2015. In total, Moore racked up 45 tackles, six pass breakups, an interception and three forced fumbles. Moore first broke into the league as a UDFA out of SMU in 2011 with the Raiders. However, he did not see regular burn until the 2014 season. In 2014, Moore ranked 22nd out of 108 qualified cornerbacks during his time at the position, per Pro Football Focus. Last year, Moore placed 64th out of 111 qualified corners, per PFF (sub. req’d).
After signing with the Bills over the offseason, Moore was released at final cutdowns.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.