Former Saints wide receiver sends grateful message to New Orleans after losing his job following DeVaughn Vele trade
Not often do players thank a city after their departure when they haven't spent long with the team. For the New Orleans Saints, a recent trade pushed one player out the door, but he is thankful to have gotten the opportunity to spend time with the organization recently.
Donovan Peoples-Jones thanks Saints fan base following release
In a social media post, the wide receiver thanked the city of New Orleans for their support while he was with the organization. Peoples-Jones did not play in any regular season games with the Saints, as he was added this offseason in free agency. Regardless, he was very grateful.
Thank you New Orleans ! 💛 🖤 pic.twitter.com/PoYTHOO00p
— Donovan Peoples-Jones (@dpeoplesjones) August 22, 2025
When the Saints traded for DeVaughn Vele, that basically closed the book on Peoples-Jones' time with the team. Vele was looked at was an upgrade for the role of big-bodied wide receiver. Peoples-Jones joined the Saints in mid-May, but reports of his impact during training camp were limited.
The Saints released Donovan Peoples-Jones to make room for WR Devaughn Vele.
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) August 21, 2025
The other wideout affected most by the addition may be Cedrick Wilson Jr., an experienced wideout who provides special teams upside for New Orleans. He was projected as the biggest target at WR on the offense, but Vele is a more impressive of fensive player and just costed the team a fourth-round selection.
Following the trade, depth players currently on the roster may certainly feel the heat at pass catcher. entering this week, I thought Cedrick Wilson Jr. was a strong candidate to make the team due to his size, experience, and special teams ability. Now, there’s a new, younger option with a similar body type and more upside for the offense on the depth chart. -- A to Z Sports
No matter what - Peoples-Jones remained a standup player and person during his time in New Orleans. He could join a new team sometime before the season begins, or a practice squad spot in New Orleans (or elsewhere) may be his best chance to remain in the pros.
Geno Smith Apologizes to Raiders Fans After Tough Loss: "I’ll Never Give Up on Raider Nation"
Las Vegas, NV — In a heartfelt message to the Raider Nation, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith expressed his apologies for the team’s recent loss and vowed unwavering loyalty to the franchise and its dedicated fanbase. After a crushing defeat to the Cleveland Browns in Week 12, Smith’s emotional response highlighted his commitment to the team despite the adversity.
The Raiders, with a dismal 2-8 record this season, have faced significant struggles in what has been a rollercoaster year for the team. Smith, who was brought in to lead the offense after a tumultuous period of inconsistency, took full responsibility for the team's performance, which has failed to live up to the expectations of the fans and the city of Las Vegas.
“I want to start by saying how deeply sorry I am to all the Raider fans out there,” Smith said after the game. “We couldn’t get the win today, and I know how much that means to you. But I want you to know that I will always stay loyal to this team. I will never give up. I’ll do everything I can to bring you joy and victories.”
The game, which ended 24-10 in favor of the Browns, was yet another disappointing chapter for the Raiders, who struggled on both sides of the ball. Smith's passing was inconsistent, and the offense couldn’t capitalize on critical opportunities. Despite flashes of promise, the Raiders' performance was ultimately marred by turnovers and missed chances.
Smith’s leadership and resilience were put to the test in the aftermath of the loss, and his message resonated deeply with fans, many of whom have been left frustrated by the team’s underperformance this season. “Raider Nation, I apologize that we couldn’t get the win today. But I promise you, I will always fight for you,” Smith continued. “I’ll keep working, and I’ll keep giving everything I have to turn this thing around.”
As the Raiders approach the final stretch of the season, Smith's vow to remain loyal and committed stands as a beacon of hope for the team's supporters. While the season may be all but lost in terms of playoff contention, Smith’s determination to turn things around has been a rallying cry for those who continue to believe in the Raiders' future.
Despite the adversity, there is still hope. "Sometimes you have to lose to grow," Smith acknowledged. "I accept this loss, and I apologize to the fans for not delivering. But I swear to you, I’ll always stay loyal and continue working hard to get the Raiders back on track."
With the season winding down and the Raiders facing an uphill battle, it remains to be seen whether Smith and the team can turn the corner. However, for now, his heartfelt message to Raider Nation serves as a reminder of his dedication to the team and its fans, and his commitment to pushing forward, no matter the challenges ahead.
