Saints work out 2023 XFL rushing leader Jahcour Pearson

The New Orleans Saints have been struggling at wide receiver for several years now, especially with Michael Thomas’ recent injuries and now his departure. On Monday, they made the decision to explore a potential option at the position while they work on Jahcour Pearson from the XFL, according to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz.

Pearson was a standout talent during his time in the XFL (now UFL), leading the league in receptions (60), receiving yards (670) and first downs (32) in 2023, while also earning a spot on the All-XFL team. He also previously worked out for NFL teams, trying out for the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks. After the XFL and USFL merged, his contract with the now-closed Seattle Sea Dragons was terminated, as he was offered a contract with the St. Louis Battlehawks after being selected second overall in the UFL’s second-round dispersal draft.

He played in four games in the UFL in 2024, catching 21 passes for 167 yards and a touchdown, and also returned 6 punts for 65 yards. He has proven to be a talented player at other levels of football, including a breakout season in 2019 at Western Kentucky, where he had 76 catches for 804 yards and 7 touchdowns.

He also had a successful pro day in 2022, posting times including a 4.42-second 40-yard dash, a 10-foot-1-inch long jump and a 7.19-second three-cone drill.

It remains to be seen whether Pearson ultimately makes the roster, joining the team after practice, or ends up on the practice squad and starting games as he climbs up the ladder.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Saints work out 2023 XFL draft leader Jahcour Pearson