The New Orleans Saints are bringing back defensive tackle Malcolm Roach as first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and confirmed by multiple local outlets, with ESPN’s Katherine Terrell, Nola.com’s Luke Johnson, and NewOrleans.Football’s Nick Underhill clarifying that it’s a one-year deal. The Baton Rouge native and former Texas Longhorn has spent all three seasons of his career in New Orleans after being signed as an undrafted free agent in 2020, appearing in 29 games as one of their top backups.
Roach hasn’t been a world-beater in New Orleans, but has proved to be very reliable depth in the interior of the defensive line. Right now he’s one of just four players in that position group under contract for 2023 along with free agent additions Nathan Shepherd and Khalen Saunders as well as Prince Emili, returning from last year’s practice squad.
He has 52 career tackles with four tackles for a loss, one sack and six quarterback hits. His lone career sack came in 2022 against Kenny Pickett and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Saints will definitely still need to address the position in the draft, but Roach will likely stick around in the rotation. Kentavius Street is also an unsigned Saints free agent who could be brought back and the 2023 NFL draft will bring more options.
