Not often do players thank a city after their departure when they haven’t spent long with the team. For the New Orleans Saints, a recent trade pushed one player out the door, but he is thankful to have gotten the opportunity to spend time with the organization recently.
Donovan Peoples-Jones thanks Saints fan base following release
In a social media post, the wide receiver thanked the city of New Orleans for their support while he was with the organization. Peoples-Jones did not play in any regular season games with the Saints, as he was added this offseason in free agency. Regardless, he was very grateful.
Thank you New Orleans ! 💛 🖤 pic.twitter.com/PoYTHOO00p
— Donovan Peoples-Jones (@dpeoplesjones) August 22, 2025
When the Saints traded for DeVaughn Vele, that basically closed the book on Peoples-Jones’ time with the team. Vele was looked at was an upgrade for the role of big-bodied wide receiver. Peoples-Jones joined the Saints in mid-May, but reports of his impact during training camp were limited.
The Saints released Donovan Peoples-Jones to make room for WR Devaughn Vele.
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) August 21, 2025
The other wideout affected most by the addition may be Cedrick Wilson Jr., an experienced wideout who provides special teams upside for New Orleans. He was projected as the biggest target at WR on the offense, but Vele is a more impressive of fensive player and just costed the team a fourth-round selection.
Following the trade, depth players currently on the roster may certainly feel the heat at pass catcher. entering this week, I thought Cedrick Wilson Jr. was a strong candidate to make the team due to his size, experience, and special teams ability. Now, there’s a new, younger option with a similar body type and more upside for the offense on the depth chart. — A to Z Sports
No matter what – Peoples-Jones remained a standup player and person during his time in New Orleans. He could join a new team sometime before the season begins, or a practice squad spot in New Orleans (or elsewhere) may be his best chance to remain in the pros.
