Saints agree to terms with 18 rookie free agents

Advocate file photoLSU quarterback Jordan Jefferson throws on the run against Arkansas in 2011. Jefferson signed with the Pittsburgh Power of the Arena Football League.

Advocate news services

METAIRIE — The New Orleans Saints announced Monday that 18 rookie free agents have agreed to terms with the team following the conclusion of the NFL draft.

Two Louisiana natives — safety Jerico Nelson of Destrehan High School and defensive lineman Tyrunn Walker of New Iberia — are among the group.

Nelson played in 49 games at Arkansas and had 169 tackles, 101/2 sacks, four interceptions, nine passes defensed and three fumble recoveries.

Walker, who started his career at Jones County (Miss.) Junior College, transferred to Tulsa and played in 26 games and finished with 84 tackles, 131/2 sacks, 11 passes defensed and two fumble recoveries.

Others coming to terms with the team were linebackers Kadarron Anderson (Furman), Stephen Johnson (Temple) and Aaron Tevis (Boise State); wide receivers Malcolm Beyah (Middle Tennessee), Chris Givens (Miami, Ohio) and Kevin Hardy (The Citadel); defensive end Braylon Broughton (TCU); tight end Jake Byrne (Wisconsin); running back Travaris Cadet (Appalachian State); defensive backs A.J. Davis (Jacksonville State), Jose Gumbs (Monmouth) and Johnny Thomas (Oklahoma State); center Brian Folkerts (Washburn); tackles Dan Hoch (Missouri) and Aderious Simmons (Arizona State); and return specialist Laron Scott (Georgia Southern).

The free agents will join the five players selected by the Saints in the draft at the team’s rookie minicamp, which will be held May 11-13.