The New Orleans Saints have signed running back Ty Chandler, bringing additional speed and depth to their backfield for the 2026 NFL season. Chandler leaves the Minnesota Vikings after four seasons with the team, marking another offensive departure for Minnesota during the current free agency period.
The move highlights continued roster changes for both franchises. While the Saints are looking to strengthen their running back group, the Vikings are seeing several skill-position players move on this offseason.
Ty Chandler Signs With the Saints
Ty Chandler is heading to New Orleans on a one-year contract worth the league minimum salary. The running back is known for his speed and versatility, which could help the Saints add another dynamic option to their offense.
| Player | Team | Position | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ty Chandler | New Orleans Saints | Running Back | 1-year deal (league minimum) |
Chandler is expected to compete for a spot in the Saints’ running back rotation and could also contribute on special teams if he earns a place on the final roster.
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Chandler’s Time With the Vikings
Chandler joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2022 and spent four seasons with the team. During that time, he mostly served as a depth option in the backfield but showed flashes of productivity, particularly during the 2023 season.
| Ty Chandler Vikings Career | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Seasons with team | 4 |
| Best season | 2023 |
| 2023 rushing yards | 461 |
| 2023 rushing touchdowns | 3 |
| 2023 receiving stats | 21 catches, 159 yards |
The 2023 campaign was Chandler’s most productive year, as he contributed both in the running game and as a receiving option out of the backfield.
Also see: Ravens Sign Danny Pinter: Former Colts Lineman Joins Baltimore
Limited Role in 2025 Season
Chandler’s role became smaller during the 2025 season. He finished the year with limited opportunities in the Vikings’ offense.
| 2025 Season Stats | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Carries | 17 |
| Rushing yards | 47 |
| Yards per carry | 2.8 |
Because of the limited workload, the Vikings ultimately chose not to bring him back during free agency.
Saints Add Speed to the Backfield
One of Chandler’s biggest strengths is his speed. The running back recorded a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, which gives New Orleans another quick option in the running game.
| Player Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5-foot-11 |
| Weight | 204 pounds |
| 40-yard dash | 4.38 seconds |
That speed could make him useful in multiple roles, including special teams coverage and return duties if needed.
Also see: De’Von Achane Trade Rumors Grow After Dolphins Move Jaylen Waddle
Vikings Continue to Lose Offensive Talent
Chandler’s departure is part of a broader trend for Minnesota this offseason. The Vikings have already seen several skill-position players leave the roster.
| Player | New Team | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Ty Chandler | Saints | Running Back |
| Jalen Nailor | Raiders | Wide Receiver |
| Ben Sims | Dolphins | Tight End |
Even though Minnesota successfully retained veteran running back Aaron Jones, the team has lost multiple offensive players during free agency.
Opportunity in New Orleans
The Saints appear to be building depth at running back ahead of the 2026 season. Chandler will likely enter training camp competing for a role in the rotation.
| Role Possibilities | Details |
|---|---|
| Running back depth | Compete for roster spot |
| Special teams | Coverage and return duties |
| Backup runner | Provide speed option |
New Orleans traditionally carries multiple running backs on the roster, which could give Chandler a chance to earn playing time if he performs well in camp.
Also Read: A.J. Brown Trade Rumors: Eagles Left With Limited Options After Rams Exit
New Chapter for Ty Chandler
After four seasons in Minnesota, Ty Chandler now begins a new chapter with the New Orleans Saints. The move provides him with an opportunity to prove himself in a different system while offering the Saints another fast and versatile backfield option.
For Minnesota, his departure marks another change to the offensive roster as the team continues reshaping its lineup during the 2026 offseason.
