National Football League

Saints LT Bushrod returning to New Orleans

Published Jul. 28, 2011 11:02 p.m. ET

foxsports

Jermon Bushrod will be protecting Drew Brees' blind side again this season.

The Saints confirmed Thursday that the two-year starter on New Orleans' offensive line has reached a two-year, free-agent deal with New Orleans, and Brees said he's pleased with the move.

A person familiar with the deal reached between the Saints and Bushrod's agent, Richard Rosa, said it is worth about $9.8 million. The person, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Saints do not disclose financial terms as a matter of policy, said the contract included a $3.5 million signing bonus.

The Saints acquired the 6-foot-5, 315-pound Bushrod in the fourth round of the 2007 draft out of Towson. He did not play a single offensive snap for his first two seasons, but after Jammal Brown was traded to Washington, Bushrod started in 2009 for the Saints' run to their first Super Bowl title. He also started every game last season.

''Obviously, I love Bushrod,'' Brees said. ''Continuity is so important when you look at the offensive line as a unit. ... It's great to have him back.''