Saints lose Senio Kelemete to Houston Texans

Senio Kelemete has been the Swiss army knife of the Saints offensive line for several years, capable of playing just about any position and serving as the unit’s primary backup.

Kelemete figures to get a chance to start under a three-year, $12 million deal with the Houston Texans, as first reported by NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport.

The #Texans are signing former #Saints OL Senio Kelemete to a 3-years, $12M with $5.5M guaranteed, source said.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2018

Kelemete, who will turn 28 in May, first came to the Saints when he was signed to the team’s practice squad on Sept. 2, 2013.

Last season, Kelemete started eight games at both guard and tackle as New Orleans battled injuries throughout the year across the offensive front. He made a total of 22 starts over the last three seasons.

The Texans need help on the offensive line. Houston allowed 54 sacks in 2017, 31st in the NFL. Only the Indianapolis Colts (56) allowed more sacks.

It’s the second hit to the Saints’ line depth this week, following the retirement of Zach Strief on Monday. All of New Orleans’ starters are under contract.