The Keenan Allen-to-New Orleans conversation continues to gain momentum. Just weeks after Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton identified the Saints as a possible destination for Allen, The Athletic’s Daniel Popper named New Orleans as Allen’s best landing spot.
“Allen relies more on technique and savvy than elite athleticism,” Popper wrote. “The Saints are a compelling fit for a couple of reasons.”
The clearest of the reasons is Saints head coach Kellen Moore. Allen produced one of his best seasons when Moore was the offensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023, catching a franchise-record 108 passes for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns in just 13 games.
Allen, 34, would also provide experience behind Chris Olave, who turned 26 in June. The rest of the Saints’ receiving corps includes rookies Jordyn Tyson and Bryce Lance, Devaughn Vele, and Ja’Lynn Polk, leaving Tyler Shough without a proven veteran target behind Olave.
“Allen would bring a proven skill set as quarterback Tyler Shough enters Year 2,” Popper added. Allen caught 81 passes last season in his return to Los Angeles after a brief stint with the Chicago Bears in 2024. The age is a potential concern, but the production is still there; he wouldn’t be arriving as a mere mentor to the Saints’ young receivers. The 13-year veteran could work underneath while Olave and Tyson stretch defenses vertically.
“It’s fair to question if he would even be willing to make a move to New Orleans for 2026,” Popper continued. “But from a football standpoint, this marriage makes a ton of sense.”
While a potential signing makes sense, no interest from the Saints has been reported, and they have limited cap space. Still, two writers each reaching the same conclusion shows why Allen is one of the most logical veteran additions for New Orleans if they were to scope out that market. The market is not firmly set for Allen, who has been a free agent since March. Spotrac projects that his agents at Klutch Sports would help Allen command a one-year deal worth around $6.8 million.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Saints again named best landing spot for veteran WR Keenen Allen
