8-time Saints captain Demario Davis agrees to join Jets

Longtime New Orleans linebacker to play for familiar team in 2026

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Veteran linebacker Demario Davis, who served as team captain for the New Orleans Saints from 2018 to 2025, has reached an agreement to join the New York Jets on a two-year, $22 million contract with $15 million in guarantees. The 37-year-old Davis is leaving the Saints after setting a career-high in tackles last season.

Why it matters

Davis has been a stalwart for the Saints, starting every regular season game he appeared in over the past eight years. His departure is a significant loss for the team, both on the field and in the locker room as a team leader. However, the Saints will save $14.29 million in dead money by moving on from Davis, allowing them to get younger at the linebacker position.

The details

Davis was originally drafted by the Jets in 2012 and spent four seasons with the team before joining the Saints as a free agent in 2018. He was twice selected to the Pro Bowl (2022, 2023) and was a five-time All-Pro during his tenure in New Orleans. The Jets are bringing back a familiar face to help bolster their defense under head coach Aaron Glenn.

  • Davis played for the Saints from 2018 to 2025.
  • He set a career-high in tackles with the Saints last season.
  • Davis' new two-year deal with the Jets is worth $22 million with $15 million guaranteed.

The players

Demario Davis

A 37-year-old linebacker who served as team captain for the New Orleans Saints from 2018 to 2025. He was a five-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler during his time in New Orleans.

Aaron Glenn

The head coach of the New York Jets, who is bringing in Davis to help bolster the team's defense.

Danny Stutsman

A young linebacker for the New Orleans Saints who is expected to have an increased role with the departure of Demario Davis.

Jaylan Ford

Another young linebacker for the New Orleans Saints who is expected to see more playing time with Davis leaving the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Saints will need to determine how to replace Demario Davis' production and leadership on the defense, likely turning to younger players like Danny Stutsman and Jaylan Ford to step up.

The takeaway

Demario Davis' departure from the Saints after eight seasons as a team captain is a significant loss for the franchise, but it also opens the door for the team to get younger at the linebacker position. The Jets are getting an experienced and respected veteran to help bolster their defense under new head coach Aaron Glenn.