Jo-Lonn Dunbar to Saints: Latest Contract Details, Comments and Reaction

The New Orleans Saints defense has been the team's weak link in recent years, and it's seeking to shore up the front seven through a reunion with linebacker Jo-Lonn Dunbar.

The 30-year-old began his career in New Orleans as an undrafted free agent in 2008 and signed again with the Saints following a Thursday workout. Head coach Sean Payton confirmed the move and said Dunbar could be active for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.

It was first reported by NOLA.com's Evan Woodbery.

Dunbar started his NFL journey as a special teams standout and was a role player on defense who contributed to New Orleans' Super Bowl XLIV run.   

After playing all 16 games and starting 14 for the Saints in 2011, Dunbar left for the St. Louis Rams in free agency and had his best season during the 2012 campaign. That year Dunbar racked up 115 combined tackles, 4.5 sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles.

But the NFL suspended him for the first four games of 2013 for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs, and he hasn't been the same since.    

The Rams released Dunbar after this year's preseason but signed him back when Alec Ogletree went down with an injury. Dunbar proceeded to be inactive for three contests before St. Louis cut him loose once again on Tuesday.

New Orleans ranks 25th and 30th, respectively, in points allowed and total yards yielded per contest. Its own injury issues at linebacker are likely the rationale for bringing Dunbar aboard.

Ahead of Week 8's home game against the New York Giants, linebackers Dannell Ellerbe and David Hawthorne missed Thursday's practice, per the Saints' injury report. Since Dunbar can play both inside and outside, he may be able to contribute if called upon this Sunday. Otherwise it's more likely Dunbar will be deployed on special teams.