Saints trade Stephone Anthony to Dolphins

The Saints have traded linebacker Stephone Anthony to the Miami Dolphins for an undisclosed 2018 draft pick.

The former first-round pick has not played this season due to an ankle injury. In his third year out of Clemson, Anthony’s playing time was reduced significantly from his rookie year in 2015 to his second in New Orleans.

“I think there came a time in where he was at in regards to where we were at in his development. I think unfortunately his injury during training camp really prevented him from receiving the snaps we were hoping to see. Ultimately it came down to a decision rosterwise for us. I love this kid. I think the world of him. Hopefully he can bounce back and make an impact for Miami,” said Saints head coach Sean Payton on Wednesday.

Anthony and the Saints will renew acquaintances soon since New Orleans will face Miami one week from Sunday at Wembley Stadium in London.

SAINTS RELEASE

The New Orleans Saints announced today that the team has traded LB Stephone Anthony to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a 2018 undisclosed draft pick. The announcement was made by Saints Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis.

Anthony, 6-3, 245 pounds, is in his third season in the NFL. Over the course of his first two seasons (2015-2016), the Clemson product appeared in 26 games, starting 19 contests, and posted 169 tackles, one sack, an interception, seven passes defensed, a fumble recovery for a touchdown, a returned blocked PAT for a defensive two-point conversion and three special teams tackles.

In 2017, Anthony was inactive for the team’s first two regular season games of the season.