Khalen Saunders Traded to Jaguars in Player Swap with Saints

On August 18, 2025, the New Orleans Saints traded defensive tackle Khalen Saunders to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for center Luke Fortner. This trade occurred just hours after both teams played to a 17-17 tie in a preseason matchup at the Caesars Superdome. The deal was first reported by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Jaguars trading for 2-time Super Bowl winnerSaints trade DT Khalen Saunders to Jaguars for center Luke Fortner – Crescent City SportsFanSidedTRADE! Saints send DT Khalen Saunders to JaguarsSaints and Jags swap players mid-game as Khalen Saunders trades New Orleans jersey for Jacksonville colorsSaints & Jaguars Agree To Blockbuster Trade Involving Two-Time Super Bowl Champion

Khalen Saunders, 29, was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Over four seasons with the Chiefs, he won two Super Bowl titles and recorded 181 tackles and 6.5 sacks. After joining the Saints in March 2023 on a three-year, $14.5 million contract, Saunders became a key player in New Orleans' defense. In the 2024 season, he played 13 games, starting 10, and accumulated 43 tackles, two sacks, and one interception, which notably included a 37-yard return against his former team, the Chiefs.

Reports: Saints trade DT Khalen Saunders to Jags for OL Luke FortnerThe Jaguars just faced Khalen Saunders — and then traded for himJaguars trading for 2-time Super Bowl winnerFormer Chief Gets Traded Overnight to Sleeping AFC GiantCBS SportsUnited Press International (UPI)

Luke Fortner, 27, was a third-round pick by the Jaguars in 2022. He started all 34 games in his first two seasons but transitioned to a backup role in 2024. The Saints acquired Fortner to bolster their offensive line after losing Will Clapp to a season-ending injury. Fortner's experience as a starter is expected to provide depth and versatility to the Saints' offensive line.

Saints Trade Khalen Saunders to Jaguars for Center Fortner

This trade reflects both teams' strategic adjustments ahead of the regular season. The Jaguars have struggled with their interior defensive line, prompting the acquisition of Saunders to enhance their defensive capabilities. Meanwhile, the Saints aimed to address their offensive line needs by bringing in Fortner, who can compete for a starting position.

Saints and Jags swap players mid-game as Khalen Saunders trades New Orleans jersey for Jacksonville colors

The trade was characterized by both teams as a necessary move to address specific roster needs. The Saints expressed confidence in Fortner's ability to contribute immediately, while the Jaguars highlighted Saunders' championship experience as a valuable asset to their defensive unit.

Saints and Jags swap players mid-game as Khalen Saunders trades New Orleans jersey for Jacksonville colors

Some analysts have raised questions about the timing of the trade, noting that it occurred immediately after the preseason game, which may have been coincidental but also provided both teams an opportunity to evaluate the players in real-time. Critics argue that the Saints may have undervalued Saunders, given his recent performance and experience.

Saints and Jags swap players mid-game as Khalen Saunders trades New Orleans jersey for Jacksonville colors

• “The #Saints are sending veteran DT Khalen Saunders to the #Jaguars, per sources.” — Tom Pelissero, NFL Network

FanSided

• “Saunders is poised to enter his seventh season in the NFL.” — Source Unspecified

The Jaguars just faced Khalen Saunders — and then traded for him

As both teams prepare for the upcoming regular season, Saunders will look to establish himself in Jacksonville's defensive lineup, while Fortner will aim to solidify his role in New Orleans' offensive scheme. The trade marks a significant shift in both players' careers as they adapt to their new teams.

Saints and Jags swap players mid-game as Khalen Saunders trades New Orleans jersey for Jacksonville colors