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Kellen Moore's Saints have been competitive but hurt by missed chances in first two games

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, September 15th 2025 at 1:21 GMT by Associated Press
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Saints Land Former “Rattler” Defensive Star Jalen Moore in First‑Round Draft Pick

The New Orleans Saints’ front office and coaching staff celebrated a notable addition to their defensive core on Friday night when the team selected former “Rattler” defensive end Jalen Moore with the 21st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The 6‑1, 246‑pound Moore, who played college ball at the University of Tennessee, was a widely‑touted prospect that many analysts ranked as the best interior lineman in the draft. The Saints, who finished the 2023 season with a 6‑11 record and struggled on the defensive line in the pass rush, are hoping Moore’s physicality and speed will fill a critical gap.

Moore’s journey to the Saints is one of hard work and consistent improvement. He began his football career at St. Charles High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he earned the nickname “Rattler” after a standout senior season that saw him rack up 90 tackles and 10 sacks. The nickname came from his aggressive, rattlesnake‑like style of play—quick, hard‑hitting, and always ready to strike. Moore carried that same ferocity into his college career, where he earned first‑team All‑SEC honors and was named the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year as a senior. His four‑year tenure at Tennessee was highlighted by 71 tackles, 16.5 sacks, and a reputation for penetrating the offensive line and disrupting plays in the backfield.

“The Saints needed a dominant presence in the middle of the line,” said defensive line coach Steve Spagnuolo, who had previously coached Moore in the SEC. “His blend of size, speed, and technique makes him an ideal fit for the Saints’ 3‑4 scheme, and his leadership on the field is something the team has been craving.”

The Saints’ decision to draft Moore is part of a larger defensive strategy outlined by head coach Dennis Allen, who emphasized that the team’s front‑end needs to be both disruptive and resilient. In the 2023 season, the Saints ranked 30th in total defense and 31st in rushing defense, allowing an average of 228.9 yards per game. Their pass rush, in particular, was a weak point, with only 23 sacks posted across the season. Moore’s arrival will provide a physical edge at nose tackle and an immediate ability to collapse the pocket.

Contract details were not fully disclosed in the initial announcement, but sources indicated that Moore will sign a four‑year, $32 million contract, with $18 million guaranteed. This aligns with the Saints’ approach to acquiring top defensive talent while maintaining cap flexibility.

The Saints’ selection of Moore follows a recent series of personnel moves aimed at bolstering the defense. Earlier this offseason, the Saints traded for former linebacker B.J. Hill and signed veteran defensive tackle T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Moore’s addition complements these moves by adding a rookie’s fresh perspective and a new dimension to the front line.

Beyond the on‑field implications, Moore’s drafting also carries cultural significance for the Saints’ fan base. St. Charles High School’s “Rattler” program is a storied part of Louisiana football lore, and the nickname has become a regional shorthand for a certain type of defensive play. The Saints’ choice to bring a “Rattler” back to the city is a nod to that heritage and a signal that the organization values the grit and determination embodied by players from the state.

In interviews, Moore expressed excitement about the opportunity to play for the Saints. “I’ve always wanted to play in New Orleans,” he said in a post‑draft interview posted on the Saints’ official website. “I know the city’s about passion and resilience—qualities that match mine as a defender. I’m ready to learn from Dennis Allen, the coaching staff, and my teammates, and I’ll do everything I can to help the team get back to the playoffs.”

The Saints’ roster picture has evolved dramatically over the past few years. While the offense, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, remains one of the league’s most efficient, the defense is in a transition phase. The Saints finished 2023 with a notable offensive line that allowed 17.2 yards per play, but the front end was frequently compromised by slower, less technically skilled defenders. With Moore’s 5.2‑second 40‑yard time—recorded at the Pro Day—and a demonstrated ability to get double‑team pressure on top‑heavy offensive lines, the Saints now possess a player capable of providing instant impact.

Moore’s selection also dovetails with the Saints’ commitment to local talent development. While Moore is from a Louisiana high school, his experience in the SEC has exposed him to a high‑level competitive environment. Saints management sees his upbringing in the region as a potential bridge to the broader New Orleans community. “We’re building a defense that is not only strong but relatable to the community,” Allen said. “Having a former “Rattler” on the team strengthens that narrative.”

For those interested in Moore’s collegiate history, the article includes several embedded links. A link to the University of Tennessee’s defensive statistics page offers a deeper dive into his college numbers. A separate link to the St. Charles High School football program provides background on the “Rattler” nickname, while a third link to a previous AP report on the Saints’ 2023 defensive struggles offers additional context on why Moore’s selection is critical.

The Saints’ selection of Jalen Moore signals a turning point for the organization. It shows a clear intent to strengthen the defensive front, add a promising young talent, and tap into a player’s local roots and fierce reputation. Whether Moore will meet the lofty expectations of a first‑round pick remains to be seen, but the combination of his on‑field talent, leadership qualities, and the Saints’ strategic defensive scheme points to a promising future for the New Orleans defense. As the Saints head into training camp with a new defensive stalwart, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see whether the “Rattler” can bring the sting back to the Saints’ line.