The Saints have lined up a post-draft addition at the receiver spot. Donovan Peoples-Jones is signing with New Orleans, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports. 
Peoples-Jones took part in the Saints’ recent rookie minicamp on a tryout basis, as noted by Matthew Paras of the Times-Picayune. His performance in that setting has obviously earned him a look. The 26-year-old will now attempt to carve out a depth role in New Orleans’ WR room.
A sixth-round pick of the Browns in 2020, Peoples-Jones increased his production during each of his three full seasons in Cleveland. The deep threat was traded to his hometown Lions midway through the 2023 season after seeing his usage rate drop considerably, however. Peoples-Jones made just five catches in eight Detroit appearances upon arrival.
The Michigan product remained with the Lions through last summer, but he did not survive roster cuts. Peoples-Jones was immediately retained on a practice squad deal; that pact did not yield any regular season action, though. As a result, expectations will be limited in New Orleans as he aims to secure a roster spot this summer.
The Saints have Chris Olave on the books for the next two years given their decision to exercise his fifth-year option. The former No. 11 pick has dealt with multiple concussions early in his career, something which has led to questions about his long-term health outlook. New Orleans also has Rashid Shaheed coming off an encouraging season which was cut shot by a meniscus tear. The WR depth chart now includes Brandin Cooks as well after he returned to the team following five years away.
Of course, the Saints need to use the summer to sort out their post-Derek Carr setup at quarterback. Regardless of who is in place under center at the start of the campaign, though, Peoples-Jones may be in place on offense.