The Saints have re-signed tight end John Phillips to a one-year deal, the club announced today.
Phillips joined the Saints last November after New Orleans claimed him off waivers from Denver. Over the next two months, Phillips appeared in eight games (four starts) for the Saints, and played on 18.8% of the club’s offensive snaps. The 29-year-old mostly served as a blocker during that time, as he posted only five receptions on seven targets. Phillips does offer special teams value, as well, as he saw time on roughly a fifth of the Saints’ ST snaps in 2016.
In 2017, Phillips will likely play the same role he did last year, acting as New Orleans’ third tight end behind Coby Fleener and Josh Hill. A seven-year veteran, Phillips has never been much of an offensive force, but he did manage 15 catches back in 2011. In addition to the Saints and Broncos, Phillips has also spent time with the Chargers and Cowboys.
Although terms of Phillips’ deal weren’t released, he likely signed a pact at or near the veteran minimum.