Saints release Spiller, 2010 No. 9 pick
The New Orleans Saints have released running back C.J. Spiller, who signed a four-year, $16 million free-agent contract just last season.
Spiller, drafted by the Bills as the No. 9 overall pick in 2010, was a healthy scratch Sunday, when the Saints lost 35-34 to the Raiders.
On Monday, New Orleans head coach Sean Payton said Spiller was scratched because there wasn’t room for him in Sunday’s game plan, adding that Spiller’s role could change “week to week.”
But then, Tuesday’s NFL transactions revealed his contract had been terminated.
When New Orleans acquired Spiller, it hoped he could fill roles similar to those of ex-Saints running backs Reggie Bush and Darren Sproles.
Spiller needed arthroscopic knee surgery last preseason and has contributed relatively little to New Orleans’ prolific offense.
In 2015, Spiller gained 112 yards rushing and 239 yards receiving in 13 games. His best NFL season was 2012, his third as a pro, when he had 1,244 yards rushing and 459 yards receiving.
Bakhtiari extension: Left tackle David Bakhtiari has signed a contract extension to stay in Green Bay, and a person familiar with the talks said it is a four-year deal worth up to $51.67 million.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity because details of the extension have not been announced.
Bakhtiari has been a starter up front since his rookie season after being drafted in the fourth round in 2013.
Seattle signs ex-Raider: The Seahawks waived cornerback Tharold Simon, a 2013 fifthround draft pick who has struggled with injuries, and signed cornerback Neiko Thorpe, who appeared in 28 games over the past two seasons with the Raiders. Thorpe had been given a second-round restricted freeagent tender in the spring, but was among the final cuts by Oakland. Thorpe briefly was with the Colts last week before getting cut.
Ivory out of hospital: The Jaguars say running back Chris Ivory has been released from the hospital and is doing well, but his availability for Sunday’s game at San Diego is in question. Ivory was hospitalized Sunday with a “general medical issue” and missed the opener.