Saints re-sign former first round pick Stephone Anthony

The Saints have re-signed former first-round pick Stephone Anthony, NFL Media’s Ian Rappoport reported first Wednesday.

A reunion I did not see coming: The #Saints are bringing back former first-round LB Stephone Anthony, source said. He’ll help on special teams, too, as he’s back with ST coordinator Darren Rizzi. They were together in Miami.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 25, 2019

Anthony was taken with the 2015 draft pick received from the Patriots for wide receiver Brandon Cooks.

The former Pro Football Writers Association all-rookie team selection only stayed in New Orleans for his first two pro seasons before the linebacker was traded to the Dolphins for a fifth-round choice.

After two seasons in Miami, Anthony spent this offseason with the Falcons and Jets before ending up again as a free again.

Antony will likely fill in on special teams for the Saints. Kaden Eliss is the latest Saints linebacker to suffer an injury after the loss of starter Alex Anzalone to injured reserve.

New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton
Conference Call with New Orleans Media
Wednesday, September 25, 2019

With Teddy Bridgewater when you signed them, did you have to add some things to the playbook or change some things or is he pretty much able to execute what’s there?

“Look, there’s a handful of things that we think he does particularly well, so you might feature or work a little bit more specifically on. There’s a general philosophy offensively and then there’s some things that we think he does really well. It’s trying to put those in in a plan that that fits the opponent you’re playing.”

You mentioned how smart he was and how quickly he adapted. Were those some of the things on display Sunday? Did you see that adaptation from him?

“Yes, I think especially in the second quarter (and in the) third quarter, he settled in and got comfortable. It’s been a while since he’s been in regular season game, but it was good to see him perform.”

Having seen Dallas already on film at least and the previous couple of years, what are some of the things that jump out about that defense? Do they have playmakers on all three levels? Up front, linebacker, and in the secondary?

“They are talented and well-coached. I think they are not just talented at one position group. Their front is exceptional. (Demarcus) Lawrence has been a tremendous pressure player, active player. Their linebackers are deep. They can run, they’re confident in the secondary. Defensively they’ve done a great job.”

Are their linebackers pretty unique in this league? The athleticism they have at that position?

“There’s two first rounders there when you look at it. Jaylon (Smith) was a player who had gotten injured and they were able to get him a round later (than he should’ve gone). They are playing at an extremely high level. Both have size, range. They love to play the position. You see it on tape.”

What’s been the biggest difference from Dak Prescott from his rookie season to now in 2019?

“Like any quarterback, you just see a little bit more growth, decision-making. He has beaten teams in the pocket. Obviously, he can escape. I think he’s very effective when he’s outside the pocket on the move. He’s run for touchdowns. I think you also see a calmness and a really good leader.”

Has that Cowboys offense looked like they are being more aggressive this season to you?

“There are some differences there. They have made some changes coaching wise. There are for some players that have come in and they’ve added some key veterans. When you bring back a (Jason) Witten, and you bring back a few guys that can help bring that (leadership) presence, I think you’re seeing it. I think you’re seeing an offensive line that’s healthy now. It’s impressive to watch.”