Report: Saints releasing Devonta Freeman

The New Orleans Saints are releasing running back Devonta Freeman, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

New Orleans signed Freeman to a one-year deal last month, but the veteran failed to impress in preseason action. He totaled 18 yards on the ground against the Jacksonville Jaguars and just 6 yards against the Baltimore Ravens.

The 29-year-old's release likely locks in Latavius Murray for the immediate backup spot behind star running back Alvin Kamara.

Freeman was coming off a disappointing 2020 campaign with the New York Giants. He made four starts but averaged only 3.2 yards per carry.

The 2014 fourth-round pick spent his first six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. He last rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2016.