The New Orleans Saints made their first surprising roster cut ahead of the NFL’s deadline on Saturday, releasing veteran safety Chris Banjo. It’s a surprising development given Banjo’s experience on the Saints’ special teams units and playmaking ability (logging three career interceptions on fewer than 100 defensive snaps), as well as the fact they signed him to a three-year contract extension back in March. Banjo’s release was first reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Banjo not making the team is likely due as much to his own performance (he allowed a wide-open touchdown receptions during the Saints’ preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings) as turnover within the coaching staff.