Saints Exercise Bresee's Option, Strengthen Defense

0:00It's April 8th. This is NFL News Today, driven by AI following the league in real-time. The New Orleans Saints just exercised the fifth-year option on defensive tackle, Brian Bercy, their first round pick from 2023. This keeps the big man locked in through the 2028 off-season with a hefty price tag of nearly $14 million in 2020. 27. Breesees had a rollercoaster ride since arriving, staying mostly healthy as a pass rusher over two seasons. And run defense was his weak spot entering this year, and switching to a 3-4 defensive end and Brandon Staley's new scheme was no joke. He stepped up big time. Fans and analysts see this as a smart move, securing a key piece without breaking the bank right away. It stabilizes the line, easing some pressure amid all the draft buzz, and gives the front office breathing room on roster building. Now with Proceed joined by Vernon Broughton and Carl Granderson, that 3-4 in spot looks solid for 2026. Still, they might grab a nose tackle in the draft, or even someone versatile like Ruben

1:04Bain Jr. if he's there at Pig 8. This sets the Saints up strong on defense heading into the draft, letting them focus elsewhere without panic moves up front.