When the Saints signed Reid to a three-year, $31.5 million deal in the offseason, it was seen as a win for a franchise that needed one after firing defensive-minded Dennis Allen in 2024. Reid was the ideal running mate for Mathieu, two players with plenty of experience who could still make a difference.

Now, they’re left with just one.

Mathieu’s down 2024 season suggested he might be over the hill, but New Orleans didn’t approach the situation as if it were a top priority in 2025. They drafted Virginia safety Jonas Sanker in the third round with the idea he’d learn behind Mathieu, contribute on special teams and find a rotational role in their defense. With Mathieu’s surprise retirement, Sanker will find himself with an immediate opportunity to earn a starting job, while Loomis will also look to add a safety to the roster quickly.

Loomis told reporters New Orleans will “certainly” add a defensive back following Mathieu’s retirement, adding “we’ll look for somebody available that can help us.”

Veteran Justin Simmons remains unsigned and is very familiar with the NFC South after spending 2024 with Atlanta, but he’s stated he’s interested in joining a contender in 2025. With expectations being low for the Saints this season, it might take some convincing — perhaps in the form of dollars and instant opportunity — in order to lure him to the Big Easy.

Former Colts safety Julian Blackmon is also available, as is 32-year-old veteran Quandre Diggs, who is fully cleared from a pervious foot injury and is available to play, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Options exist, but with camp starting, the Saints will need to act quickly to fill the unexpected void created by Mathieu’s retirement.