Ramon

Humber

An undrafted free agent addition by Indianapolis back in 2009, Humber went on to lead the Colts in special teams tackles his rookie season. A broken hand has limited him to 18 games over the last two seasons, but, at just 24-years-old, he should find himself competing for a roster spot somewhere this offseason.

“We certainly think Curtis will be ready for the first game,” interim coach Joe Vitt assured. We’ll see. High ankle sprains can cost players 4-8 weeks, and the Saints’ September 9 regular season opener against the Redskins is 20 days away. Ramon Humber will stand in as New Orleans’ starting middle linebacker. Humber is suspended for the first three games of the year.

CB Laron Scott and OG Scott Winnewisser were waived in corresponding moves. A four-year veteran, Humber notched 21 tackles in 13 games for last season, but was non-tendered and handed a three-game ban for his role in the Saints’ bounty scandal. Humber will be allowed to play during the preseason, but it’s unlikely he’ll crack the 53-man roster once his suspension is up.

Humber, 24, appeared in 13 games for the Saints last season, mostly as a backup linebacker and key special teamer. It now appears he’s been caught up in the Bounty Scandal, although the exact reason for the suspension is unknown. Humber is allowed to sign with a team and practice during the preseason.

Humber, a former Colts undrafted free agent, was cut earlier this month. He’s back to fill a special teams role.

An undersized weak-side linebacker type at 5-foot-11 and 232 pounds, Humber won’t be a candidate to play on defense in Rob Ryan’s new 3-4. He did rack up eight special teams tackles in 2012 and could earn a roster spot there.

Humber was among the Saints’ top special teamers last season, posting six solo tackles on that unit and recovering two onside kicks. He was also a sub-package inside linebacker behind starters Curtis Lofton and David Hawthorne. The Saints have to be very careful about their cap situation with Jimmy Graham’s potential free agency hanging over their heads.

Humber, 29, was released by the Patriots on Tuesday, but he quickly lands on his feet with the division-rival Bills. Humber played for Rob Ryan in New Orleans and figures to earn his keep on special teams.

The longtime Saint was trying to earn a reserve role on defense. Headed into his age-29 season, Humber’s special teams prowess should earn him a look elsewhere.

Humber is a core special teamer, appearing in all 16 2016 contests. He turns 30 in August.