The New Orleans Saints announced on May 27, 2026, the signing of linebacker Jackson Sirmon, formerly with the New York Jets. This move adds experienced depth to an evolving linebacker group under the direction of first-year head coach Kellen Moore and defensive coordinator Brandon Staley.
Sirmon's addition is a classic late offseason depth signing. The 6-foot-2, 240-pound linebacker joins the Saints roster as a promising special teams contributor with potential upside to provide rotational defensive snaps when called upon. The transaction occurred just days before the start of the Saints' Organized Team Activities (OTAs), making it a timely investment in roster competition and linebacker depth.
Who Is Jackson Sirmon?
Jackson Sirmon entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft after playing college football at California and Washington. During his rookie season with the New York Jets, Sirmon spent much of the year on the practice squad before being elevated late in the campaign. In limited appearances on special teams and defense, he demonstrated solid tackling ability and keen football intelligence.
At the collegiate level, Sirmon compiled 189 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and one interception over four seasons. Known for his preparation and football IQ, he often made pre-snap adjustments and was praised for his understanding of defensive schemes rather than relying solely on athleticism.
The Saints have brought him in not to immediately challenge starters but to add competition behind veterans Kaden Elliss and Pete Werner, while also bolstering special teams units.
Linebacker Room Context and Sirmon's Role
The Saints' linebacker corps has seen significant changes recently. Kaden Elliss, who has a strong rapport with the coaching staff, returns to anchor the unit alongside Pete Werner, the team's versatile coverage linebacker. Rookie Danny Stutsman, a recent draft pick with an aggressive and instinctive style, is viewed as a key piece of the future at inside linebacker. Jaylan Ford and Isaiah Stalbird provide depth and special teams contributions.
Jackson Sirmon enters a competitive battle for the fourth and possibly fifth linebacker spots. While Ford and Stalbird currently hold edges due to draft status and previous contributions, Sirmon's experience and special teams value could earn him a place on the 53-man roster if he outperforms these peers in training camp and preseason.
Scheme Fit Under Brandon Staley
Defensive coordinator Brandon Staley's scheme is a 3-4 base defense emphasizing zone coverage, lateral mobility, and high football IQ -- traits that align with Sirmon's playing style. His college background in similar systems and demonstrated ability to maintain gap integrity and coverage responsibilities make him a natural fit for Staley's approach.
Though there are questions about his athletic ceiling, particularly in coverage, Sirmon's reliability and understanding of complex defensive concepts increase his chances of contributing in sub-packages and special teams.
Special Teams Importance
Special teams may be the key to Sirmon's roster spot. Under special teams coordinator Phil Galiano, the Saints have stressed the importance of sound coverage units and hidden yardage battles. Linebackers who can reliably perform on kickoff and punt coverage have a clear path to roster spots, beyond traditional defensive snaps.
Sirmon logged nearly 60% of his snaps on special teams during his time with the Jets and graded well in tackling efficiency. His presence provides a dependable option in coverage roles, an area the Saints are eager to improve.
Outlook and Implications for the Saints
While the signing of a fringe linebacker does not dramatically shift the Saints' outlook for the 2026 season, it signals the front office's commitment to competition and depth building. General manager Mickey Loomis continues to seek value in overlooked free agents to complement draft picks and established veterans.
Jackson Sirmon's signing reflects an emphasis on building a well-rounded linebacker room capable of weathering injuries and providing quality special teams play. As June OTAs progress into training camp, Sirmon's performance will determine if he can secure a roster spot and contribute meaningfully in his first year in New Orleans.
The Saints' linebacker room is now fuller and more competitive heading into summer practices, and fans should watch Sirmon's development closely as potential depth emerges behind the established starters.
This targeted signing exemplifies the incremental roster moves that form the backbone of a successful NFL team roster, especially in competitive positional groups like linebacker. Jackson Sirmon's signing on May 27, 2026, provides the Saints with an affordable, football-savvy linebacker adding competition and special teams experience as the roster is shaped for the upcoming season.