METAIRIE, La. -- The New Orleans Saints released veteran safety Kenny Phillips and rookie defensive tackle Ashaad Mabry, according to ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates. The Saints needed to make room for the two newcomers they claimed off waivers earlier in the day -- linebacker Michael Mauti and Obum Gwacham.
Phillips is an example of what a tough business the NFL can be. The 28-year-old former was trying to make a comeback after two years out of the league. The former New York Giants starter hasn't played since 2012 because of quadriceps and knee injuries.
The Saints also released linebacker Ronald Powell from their injured reserve list, according to Yates.
The Saints also announced they signed seven players to the practice squad Sunday evening: WR Seantavius Jones, WR R.J. Harris, TE Chris Manhertz, FB Toben Opurum, OL Sean Hickey, G Cyril Lemon and CB Sammy Seamster. They have three practice squad spots left to fill.
As of Sunday evening, the Saints had not placed any injured players on short-term injured reserve -- which appears to be a good sign that they expect cornerback Keenan Lewis to return to the field in less than eight weeks. But the Saints can still make that designation with one player at any point this season.
