Former Buccaneers running back signs with division rival Saints

After three seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, running back Jacquizz Rodgers has struck a deal with the New Orleans Saints.

It has seemed like a trend this offseason with players leaving the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for division rivals. In the latest edition of this story, former Buccaneers’ and free agent running back Jacquizz Rodgers has signed with the New Orleans Saints.

The Saints now make Rodgers’ third team he has played for in the NFC South as he played for the Atlanta Falcons before coming to Tampa Bay. After having his best year as a receiver out of the backfield, the Buccaneers opted to let him walk and sign Andre Ellington to fill that role instead.

Ellington has the hand up on Rodgers as he has played under new head coach Bruce Arians in the past. Nonetheless, Rodgers is an efficient receiver out of the backfield and could provide a nice change of pace next to Alvin Kamara and Latavius Murray in New Orleans.

Now 29, Rodgers has tallied a total of over 2,000 yards rushing and nine touchdowns as a career third down back. Known for his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, Rodgers has totaled 216 catches for nearly 1,600 yards and five touchdowns additionally.

During his three year stint in Tampa Bay, Rodgers rushed for 910 yards and four touchdowns, averaging four yards per carry. He caught 60 total passes for 476 yards in the pewter and red as well, 38 catches and 304 yards came last year for the Buccaneers.

Tampa will look to spearhead the rushing attack with Peyton Barber, Ronald Jones, and Ellington as their third down back this season. After an abysmal effort on the ground last year, this group has already shown improvement during training camp and look to take a step forward this year.