The New Orleans Saints carry a deep No. 28 legacy into the 2025 opener against the Arizona Cardinals, a roster thread that runs from the Dome Patrol-era savages to today’s fresh faces. Julian Blackmon is the latest to slide into No. 28, teaming with Justin Reid to form a younger, more athletic safety duo in a rebuild-minded secondary. The piece traces a long line of No. 28 wearers—greats and flashes alike—highlighting Gene Atkins’s seven-year run and Latavius Murray’s two-year surge, among others, as the jersey’s enduring mark on Saints defense and identity.

Blackmon’s arrival signals a shift toward playmaking and turnover potential, a key fantasy implication as Reid and Blackmon look to spark more turnovers and limit big plays. The No. 28 thread stretches through Antonio Williams, Mark Ingram II (the early high draft pick who wore 28 briefly before settling at 22), C.J. Spiller’s questionable tenure, and Latavius Murray’s efficient run—reminders that the Saints prize versatility and a defensive tone-setter when selecting this number. In a franchise already rebuilding, Blackmon’s No. 28 could translate into immediate splash plays and improved back-end efficiency as the season opens in Week 1.

In short, the No. 28 story is about more than a number; it’s a lens on New Orleans’ evolving defense and a signal to fantasy managers to watch the back end closely as Blackmon and Reid try to recreate a disruptive secondary identity for a Saints squad chasing a return to form.

Julian Blackmon joins the New Orleans Saints on a signing spree that aims to juice up the back end with youth and athleticism. In a countdown to Week 1, Blackmon, the 26-year-old Utah product, pairs with Justin Reid to form a fresher safety duo after Tyrann Mathieu’s retirement. Blackmon’s versatility—safety with corner instincts and slot potential—gives the Saints a flexible safety Dz that could drive stronger tackle floors and more playmaking in IDP formats. The move signals a shift toward a faster, rangier defense as New Orleans eyes a quick ramp to the 2025 season against the Cardinals.

Blackmon’s career arc has resilience: from Pac-12 ball hawk to Colts contributor, then a return from injuries to a signing that reconfigures a secondary in need of length and instincts. With Reid beside him, the Saints project a young but vibrant back end, setting the tone for a revamped unit that could elevate both pass defense and run support in a league leaning on dynamic safety play. Week 1 looms, and the Arizona matchup is a proving ground for this rebuilt DB corps.

Ronnie Harrison signs with the Atlanta Falcons, adding veteran depth to a defensive backfield that reshuffles after the Colts pivoted out several safeties. Harrison’s 2023 season featured 234 defensive snaps primarily at linebacker before shifting back to safety in 2024, where he played sparingly on defense but was a major core contributor on special teams with 197 snaps across five phases. The Colts, meanwhile, let Harrison and Julian Blackmon depart, retooling with Cam Bynum and the rookie Hunter Wohler to join Nick Cross, Rodney Thomas, and others. The Falcons acquire a player whose value is rooted in special teams and reliable depth in the secondary as offseason roster moves continue to shape both teams.

Colts general roster changes include freeing Harrison and Blackmon, then adding Bynum in free agency and drafting Wohler. Cross is expected to start alongside Bynum, with Rodney Thomas also in the mix, creating a depth chart that prioritizes versatile defensive backs and special-teams impact. The Saints land Blackmon while Atlanta absorbs Harrison, and the storyline centers on how these shiftings rosters will influence late-season defenses and IDP/value bets as clubs prepare for the upcoming schedule.

The New Orleans Saints have signed former Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon, looking for depth in their secondary following Tyrann Mathieu's departure. Blackmon, 26, had a standout 2023 season, showcasing his skills with four interceptions and solid tackling as a strong safety. His experience as a starter in all games played over five years indicates reliability, making him a strategic choice for the Saints as they bolster their defense.

Despite facing injuries earlier in his career, Blackmon has demonstrated resilience and growth, positioning himself as a potential key player in the Saints' lineup. Team analysts believe his ability to make plays will be crucial as the Saints aim to fortify their defensive strategies. He is expected to compete for a starting role, bringing in much-needed experience and skill to the team's secondary.

The New Orleans Saints have officially signed safety Julian Blackmon to a contract worth up to $5.5 million, following Tyrann Mathieu's unexpected retirement. Blackmon, previously with the Indianapolis Colts, brings notable skills, having started consistently over the past five years. Despite injury setbacks, including an Achilles tear and shoulder issues, he recorded 10 interceptions and 300 tackles in his NFL career.

Blackmon aims to bolster a Saints secondary in transition, competing for a starting position alongside Justin Reid. His ability to create turnovers and make impactful plays could be a critical asset for the Saints as they look to rebuild their defense.