Khalif Barnes joined the Saints less than three weeks ago, but his tenure with the team has already come to an end. ESPN’s Adam Caplan tweets that the organization has released the offensive lineman. Nick Underhill of The Advocate notes (on Twitter) that the move was made to accommodate the one-day contract of Lance Moore, who subsequently retired with the organization. Underhill expects Barnes to re-sign with the team.
The Saints have clearly been enamored with Barnes for some time, as the organization signed the veteran four separate times during the 2016 campaign. However, the 35-year-old didn’t up making a single appearance last season. He ended up inking another contract with the Saints earlier this month, but the lineman didn’t even make it through OTAs this time around.
A team seeking leadership and versatility could certainly use Barnes. The 12-year veteran has more than 151 career games under his belt, including 117 career starts. His ability to play both offensive tackle and offensive guard will presumably make him ideal for a reserve role.
Barnes was competing with several lineman for backup offensive line reps. Behind the five starters, the Saints are currently rostering Zach Strief, Senio Kelemete, Landon Turner, and Jack Allen.
He’s been signed and released, what 5 times now