REPORT: Saints lose defensive tackles Tuttle, Onyemata to free agency

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 13: A New Orleans Saints helmet is seen on the bench during the game between the New Orleans Saints and the Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field on October 13, 2019 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

by: Aaron S. Lee

Posted: Mar 13, 2023 / 02:44 PM EDT

Updated: Mar 13, 2023 / 02:45 PM EDT

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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The New Orleans Saints’ roster took a hit on Monday with defensive tackles David Onyemata and Shy Tuttle reportedly signing with a pair of NFC South rivals.

Onyemata, 30, will be reuniting with Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, who was his coach in New Orleans before being let go in the off-season.

NFL analyst Adam Schefter tweeted that Onyemata is getting a 3-year, $35 million deal that includes a $24.5 million guarantee.

Meanwhile, Tuttle will take his talents to the Carolina Panthers on a 3-year, $19.5 million deal with #13 million guaranteed.

Tuttle grew up in Midway, North Carolina, about 68 miles from Charlotte.