The New Orleans Saints announced the release of safety J.T. Gray on Monday, head coach Kellen Moore confirmed. Gray, who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2018, became a core contributor for the Saints, primarily through his standout performances on special teams. Over his career, he earned two first-team All-Pro honors and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2021.
Gray’s Leadership and Dedication Made His Release One of Moore’s Hardest
Gray established himself as one of the league’s top special teams players and served as a respected team captain during his tenure in New Orleans. His consistent effort, leadership, and playmaking ability made him a valuable presence in the locker room as well as on the field. Moore highlighted these qualities, noting that Gray’s contributions went beyond statistics and had a lasting impact on the organization.
J.T. Gray (NFL)Head coach Kellen Moore acknowledged that the decision to release Gray was one of the toughest he has faced this season. Moore praised Gray’s skill and dedication, emphasizing the difficulty of parting ways with a player who had been a key contributor for years. Despite the challenging nature of the move, Moore underscored that the decision was based on roster flexibility rather than a lack of talent or effort from Gray.
Roster Strategy, Not Health Concerns, Drives Gray’s Release Amid Future NFL Prospects
Although Gray had dealt with a hamstring injury earlier in the summer, Moore clarified that the release was not connected to his health. Gray is currently healthy, but the injury limited his participation and visibility during training camp. Moore explained that roster management and the need for flexibility over the course of the season ultimately influenced the decision, making it a strategic move rather than a reflection of Gray’s abilities.
Looking ahead, Moore expressed confidence that Gray will quickly find another opportunity in the NFL. While the Saints have not discussed a potential practice squad role for him, Moore expects Gray to be signed to another team’s active roster in the near future. Given his proven track record as a special teams ace and leader, Gray’s release is likely to open the door to new opportunities elsewhere in the league.
