Former Texas LB Jaylan Ford makes Saints' 53-man roster

Formerly a star on Saturdays, linebacker Jaylan Ford will now play on Sundays at the highest level.

After the New Orleans Saints selected the former Longhorn with the 175th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL draft, Ford has now made the Saints 53-man roster .

Ford served as Texas’ defensive signal-caller last year, but will not be in as prominent of a role in a linebacker room with the likes of second-team All-Pro Demario Davis. However, he will certainly feature on special teams as many young NFL players do.

The defensive stalwart started 29 games for the Longhorns during his college career, totaling 287 tackles (141 solo), 27.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, ten passes defended, six interceptions, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.

In his stellar 2023 season, Ford compiled two interceptions, two passes defended, a sack, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery while leading the team with 101 total tackles (46 solo).

Ford will make his NFL debut as the Saints open the season at home against the Carolina Panthers on Sept. 8 at 12 p.m. CT.

Related: 2024 NFL Draft Player Profile: Texas LB Jaylan Ford