The New Orleans Saints are already looking ahead to next season after encountering quite the successful run in 2018-19. While the Saints will surely be looking to add even more talent from around the league, New Orleans has actually elected to retain one of their own early on in the offseason.

According to an initial report from Sean Fazende of FOX 8, the Saints have re-signed special teams ace Justin Hardee to a one-year deal. Hardee was initially set to become an exclusive rights free agent this offseason.

“Glad that God has blessed me with another opportunity with the organization that I started with,” Hardee tweeted on Monday, confirming the initial report. “Love this city, the fans, and more importantly my team. We have another opportunity together who dat nation let’s embrace it to the fullest.”

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After playing his collegiate football for the Illinois Fighting Illini, Hardee attempted to break into the NFL as a member of the Houston Texans back in 2017. However, Hardee was unable to do so and then made his way to the bayou en route to signing with the Saints. During his time in New Orleans, the defender-turned-special teams standout has found a home performing well in various situations that have often given the NFC South franchise an unexpected edge.

Of course, the Saints' most recent campaign came to an abrupt halt due to a massive blown call against the Los Angeles Rams in this years' NFC title game. Nonetheless, the Saints will be back once again come next season.