When defensive back Tyrann Mathieu unexpectedly revealed his retirement from the game on Tuesday, July 22, the New Orleans Saints had to act swiftly. In his place, the club has now opted to acquire Julian Blackmon, a new player.

On Tuesday evening (July 22), Ian Rapoport, an NFL insider, revealed the news. According to sources, "The #Saints have found their replacement for the Honey Badger, as they are signing #Colts FA S Julian Blackmon. Today's retirement of Tyrann Mathieu resulted in a pre-camp roster move."

An examination of Julian Blackmon's NFL career

Blackmon, who is 26, is currently beginning his sixth season in this league. In his 66 games played with the Indianapolis Colts (62 starts), his prior experience is coming to an end with 300 career tackles, 10 interceptions, 21 passes defended, and two forced fumbles.

On Gregg Rosenthal's list of the "Top 101 free agents available," he and Justin Simmons were the only two safeties mentioned. The Saints chose the younger of the two candidates when choosing their most recent team addition, maybe in the hopes that he would fit in alongside Justin Reid in the defensive outfield.

Mathieu played 700 snaps at free safety, 268 in the box, and 57 in the slot last season, as opposed to Colts' 874/175/50. Given that Blackmon continued to play with a torn rotator cuff last year after being hurt during the Colts' season opener, he may prove to be just as strong against the run as Mathieu.

The Saints supporters have a mixed reaction

Following the news, supporters shared their opinions on social media. One user stated, "Everything the Saints do is so pathetic." "Unable to replace the leadership or expertise." However, the Saints did replace the production while getting younger during the last two seasons, according to another.

"Julian will do great things with Saints!" a third commented, and "Good move grabbing a talented free agent like Blackmon," a fourth added. Another said, "He's solid, should have been picked up already... Won't be all pro but you can do worse as a starter."

The Saints will not be compelled to start third-round rookie Jonas Sanker on the field unless he demonstrates during training camp that he is prepared for it by preventing the crisis on day one itself.

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