Saints Make Key Moves as Trade Deadline Approaches: Vele, Fortner, and Godchaux Join Roster Amid Kamara, Shaheed Rumors

October 6, 2025 — New Orleans, LA

With the 2025 NFL trade deadline looming, the New Orleans Saints have been among the more active teams in reshaping their roster, making several confirmed trades while also finding themselves at the center of trade speculation involving key offensive playmakers.

Confirmed Moves: Depth and Versatility Added

The most recent acquisition for New Orleans is wide receiver Devaughn Vele, who arrives from the Denver Broncos. In return, the Saints are sending a 2026 fourth-round pick and a 2027 seventh-rounder** to Denver. Vele, a tall and physical receiver known for his red-zone presence, is expected to add depth behind Chris Olave and Michael Thomas, particularly as the Saints continue to battle injuries at the position.

Earlier this year, New Orleans quietly bolstered its defensive line by acquiring Davon Godchaux from the New England Patriots for a 2026 seventh-round pick.

The veteran defensive tackle brings size and experience to a unit that has struggled to stop the run through the early part of the season.

In a rare player-for-player deal, the Saints also traded defensive tackle Khalen Saunders to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for offensive lineman Luke Fortner, pending physicals.

Fortner is expected to compete for time at center and guard, providing valuable flexibility to a New Orleans offensive line that has been inconsistent.

Trade Rumors: Kamara, Shaheed Drawing Interest

While the Saints are clearly buying in key areas, rumors are swirling about potential departures.

Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed has been linked to the Buffalo Bills, who are reportedly seeking a speedster to stretch the field as they make a playoff push. Shaheed has flashed game-breaking ability but could be deemed expendable with Vele’s arrival and the development of rookie wideout Tre’Quan Hardy.

More significantly, Alvin Kamara has emerged as a potential trade target for the Kansas City Chiefs, according to reports from Talksport. Kansas City, still seeking a dynamic, dual-threat back, is said to be exploring the possibility of acquiring the five-time Pro Bowler. Kamara’s versatility as a rusher and receiver could provide a major boost to Patrick Mahomes’ offense. However, any deal would require serious cap maneuvering, as Kamara carries a hefty contract.

Outlook: Saints Eyeing Wild Card While Managing Cap

With a 3–2 record heading into Week 6, the Saints find themselves in the thick of the NFC playoff race. The recent moves signal an aggressive, win-now mentality while also laying groundwork for the future with draft-pick shrewdness and roster flexibility.

Still, all eyes will remain on the Saints’ front office in the coming days. If Kamara or Shaheed are moved, it would mark a significant philosophical shift—one that may depend on how confident New Orleans is in its ability to contend this year.