In a jaw-dropping move that has rocked the NFL landscape, the New Orleans Saints have officially re-signed veteran offensive tackle and Pro Bowler **Alejandro Villanueva** to a **3-year, \$450 million contract**, including a **record-breaking guaranteed sum** that is expected to reshape player negotiations league-wide.
The 36-year-old Spanish-born tackle, who initially retired after the 2021 season following a stint with the Baltimore Ravens, made a sensational return to the league in 2023 with the Saints. Since then, he’s played a key role in revitalizing New Orleans’ offensive line, helping the team make two consecutive playoff appearances. His leadership, consistency, and surprising longevity have earned him this latest blockbuster contract — a move that stunned fans and analysts alike.
### A Record-Breaking Contract
Villanueva’s new deal is the most lucrative ever given to an offensive lineman, and one of the most expensive across all positions in NFL history. The \$450 million contract will pay him an average of **\$150 million per year**, dwarfing the current top offensive tackle salaries. Even more historic is the guaranteed money involved — sources close to the deal confirm that **\$300 million is fully guaranteed**, the highest ever for an offensive lineman and second only to quarterbacks in NFL history.
“**This is more than a football contract — it’s a message,**” said Saints GM Mickey Loomis at the press conference announcing the deal. “It says that leadership, toughness, and performance at the highest level are going to be rewarded. Alejandro’s impact both on and off the field is immeasurable.”
### A Remarkable Career
Alejandro Villanueva’s career is already one of the most unique stories in NFL history. A graduate of West Point and a former Army Ranger with multiple deployments to Afghanistan, Villanueva entered the NFL undrafted and bounced around practice squads before finally earning a starting role with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015.
He made two Pro Bowl appearances with Pittsburgh and gained respect across the league for his toughness, discipline, and character. After announcing his retirement in 2021, he returned to the sport in 2023, responding to a call from the Saints — then dealing with a depleted offensive line.
His return was more than symbolic. Over the last two seasons, Villanueva has started every game, allowing just four total sacks and anchoring one of the most improved offensive lines in the NFL.
### Reactions from Around the League
The reaction to the signing has been mixed across the football world.
“**This contract is surreal, even in today’s market,**” said ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky. “Villanueva is a phenomenal player and person, but \$150 million a year for a tackle pushing 40? It’s bold — and risky.”
However, several current and former players have celebrated the deal. Saints quarterback Derek Carr called it “well-deserved,” adding that Villanueva is “one of the smartest and toughest teammates I’ve ever had.”
NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith also praised the contract: “Deals like this set a precedent for future negotiations and demonstrate that value isn’t just measured in age or stats — it’s about what a player brings to the organization in every way.”
### What This Means for the Saints
While the cap implications of the deal are still being worked out — with analysts expecting creative structuring to spread out bonuses and hit across multiple years — the Saints are clearly going all-in for a championship run in the near future.
The deal also solidifies their offensive line through at least 2027, giving the team stability in a key area and buying more time to groom younger talent under Villanueva’s mentorship.
Head coach Dennis Allen was emphatic: “Alejandro is the heart of this line. His experience, his poise, and his fire — we couldn’t be more excited to keep him in black and gold.”
### The Legacy of a Warrior
Beyond the field, Villanueva has been an active advocate for military veterans, mental health awareness, and youth mentorship. His presence in the locker room and the community has been transformative, making this signing not just a football decision but a cultural one.
With this deal, Villanueva not only cements his place in NFL history but also sets a new bar for what veteran leadership can mean — and cost — in today’s league.