The New Orleans Saints have agreed to terms with LB Jonathan Vilma on a five-year contract, it was announced today by Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis. Vilma led the Saints with 151 tackles and three forced fumbles in 2008 and added a pair of fumble recoveries, a sack and an interception.? ? ?We made re-signing Jonathan our top priority, and this is an important first step as we prepare for the 2009 season,? said Loomis. ?Jonathan proved he could come back from his injury and play at a high level and we expect the same or better from him starting this season.?

The Saints have released veteran running back Deuce McAllister, according to an Associated Press report. Team officials said Tuesday they have granted McAllister his release so he could seek offers from other teams. Click here to discuss McAllister's release on our Saints forum

Saints running back Reggie Bush says that the team's goal for the 2009 season is at the very least to earn a playoff berth. "I'm looking forward to big things out of the Saints next year, and for me too. I want to be in the Super Bowl next year," Bush said. "I want to be the MVP of the Super Bowl. I want all those accolades. That's why we're here -- if you don't shoot for the highest goals, then you're kind of selling yourself short." Bush was then asked to make his goal for the upcoming season clearer. "Yeah, Super Bowl appearance, at least a playoff berth, at least playoffs," Bush added.

Dan Morgan, who retired last season due to injuries, has been reinstated by the NFL just a few weeks after expressing his desire to return. Morgan, 30, signed a one-year deal with the Saints last season and is on their roster. He dealt with concussion problems throughout his career, and had a partially torn Achilles' tendon in 2007.

The New Orleans Saints announced today that they have released veteran wide receiver David Patten. In 2008 Patten played in five games for the Saints and made three starts. Over the course of the season he totaled 11 receptions for 162 yards for a 14.7 receiving average and one touchdown. Patten missed games four through seven due to a groin injury, returned to action in game eight at Atlanta, and was inactive for the final eight games of the season.

An executive advised lawmakers on Tuesday that Louisiana must find $27.5 million next year to fulfill contracts that keep the Saints and Hornets in New Orleans. The state pays the two pro teams direct cash payments each year to retain the clubs, which allows the teams to remain afloat despite the small market.