National Football League

Saints sign CB Lewis to 5-year deal

Published Mar. 14, 2013 6:29 p.m. ET

foxsports

The New Orleans Saints have signed free agent cornerback Keenan Lewis to a five-year contract.

The 6-foot-0, 208-pound Lewis is a New Orleans native, playing high school football in the city at O. Perry Walker. The 26-year-old spent his first four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, moving into a starting role last season and leading the NFL with 23 passes defended. Lewis visited with the Saints earlier this week.

General Manager Mickey Loomis says Lewis was a top target for the Saints, who are transitioning to a 3-4 defense under new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan.

Lewis' deal is worth $26.3 million with $10.5 million in guarantees, including a $6 million signing bonus, according to NOLA.com.