In a surprise move on Monday, the New Orleans Saints have released defensive back J.T. Gray. Head Coach Kellen Moore made the announcement during his afternoon press conference.
Gray was signed by the Saints as an undrafted free agent in May 2018. He quickly became a special teams standout in New Orleans. Grey was named a first-team All-Pro in 2021, second-team All-Pro twice (2019, 2024) and was selected to the Pro-Bowl in 2021. In March 2023, Gray signed a three-year contract extension with the Saints.
Moore said releasing Gray was one of the hardest decisions made this year. Calling it a really challenging move.
A 4-time special teams captain for the Saints, Gray played in 98 regular season games, posting 93 special teams stops, 2 blocked punts, and a fumble recovery. On defense, he recorded 14 tackles, 2.5 sacks, one pass breakup and forced one fumble.
“On behalf of the entire organization, I want to thank J.T. for everything he has given to the Saints over the past seven seasons. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence set the standard for what it means to be a Saint,” Coach Kellen Moore said. “We are grateful for his contributions both on and off the field, and we wish him and his family nothing but the best moving forward.”