Ben Watson, Saints Reportedly Agree to 1-Year Contract

Tight end Ben Watson reportedly agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the New Orleans Saints on Wednesday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.   

The move represents a reunion for the two sides after Watson spent three seasons in the Big Easy from 2013-15. 

Things took a turn in 2016 when Watson ruptured his Achilles after latching on with the Baltimore Ravens, but he rebounded in style last year. 

Appearing in all 16 games, Watson caught 61 passes for 522 yards and four touchdowns as one of quarterback Joe Flacco's most reliable targets. 

"He's been through a lot this year, and he suits up every week. Just the toughness that he's shown is unbelievable," Flacco said in November, according to the Associated Press (via USA Today). "He's always in the right spot. He's been huge."

The 37-year-old also received rave reviews from head coach John Harbaugh for his perseverance. 

"At his age, to come back, he's so motivated," he said. "And it's not just that. He's been playing through different kinds of bumps and bruises all year. He's just a very tough person, a very determined individual. We're very fortunate to have him."

The Ravens will be sad to see a player of Watson's character go, but he should be a quality addition for the Saints, who entered the offseason needing to bolster their talent pool at tight end. 

Plus, Watson has an established rapport with quarterback Drew Brees and shined with him under center in 2015 to the tune of a career-high 74 receptions for 825 yards and six touchdowns. 

Based on that history and the Saints' scarcity of true No. 1 options at the position, it stands to reason Watson could challenge Josh Hill for starting duties come training camp.