Saints Should Pursue Veteran Starter From Dolphins After Release

New Orleans Saints could bolster offensive line with former Dolphins guard James Daniels

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The New Orleans Saints are in need of offensive line help, particularly at guard, and could target former Miami Dolphins guard James Daniels, who was recently released by the team. Daniels, a 28-year-old with experience at multiple interior line spots, has missed most of the last two seasons due to injury but was previously a force in the middle of the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line.

Why it matters

The Saints are looking to build up the interior of their offensive line to complement their young offensive tackles. Signing a veteran like Daniels, who has proven ability as a run blocker, could help solidify the Saints' offensive line and provide support for their running game.

The details

The Saints tried experimenting with Trevor Penning at guard last season but ultimately cut ties with him. With fewer sure things available in the draft, the Saints may need to address their guard needs in free agency. Daniels, who has logged over 1,000 snaps in four of his five healthy seasons, could be an affordable option given his recent injury history.

  • Daniels was released from the Dolphins earlier this offseason.

The players

James Daniels

A 28-year-old offensive guard who was recently released by the Miami Dolphins after missing most of the last two seasons due to injury.

Trevor Penning

A former Saints player who the team tried experimenting with at guard last season before ultimately cutting ties with him.

Najee Harris

The Pittsburgh Steelers running back who benefited from Daniels' run blocking prowess during his time with the Steelers.

Erik McCoy

The Saints' starting center.

Cesar Ruiz

The Saints' starting right guard.

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What they’re saying

“Daniels, 28, lost his 2025 season to an injury after missing much of the 2024 season, too. He's been a bit snakebit as of late but logged more than 1,000 snaps in four of the five years that preceded this unlucky stretch. He's a gifted athlete with plenty of experience at all three interior line spots; whether he's competing to start at left guard, pushing Cesar Ruiz at right guard, or backing up Erik McCoy at center, the Saints could use his help.”

— John Sigler, Saints Wire (si.com)

What’s next

The Saints will need to evaluate Daniels' health and determine if he can return to his previous level of play after missing significant time due to injury. If he checks out medically, the Saints could pursue him in free agency as an affordable option to bolster their offensive line.

The takeaway

The Saints' offensive line is a key area of need this offseason, and signing a veteran like James Daniels could provide a cost-effective solution to help solidify the interior of their line. Daniels' past production and versatility make him an intriguing target, but his recent injury history will need to be carefully evaluated before the Saints commit to bringing him in.