After a long couple of months of silence, the New Orleans Breakers are now very active in free agency. Jerod Fernandez and Vontae Diggs – two of the top linebackers in the USFL – have officially re-signed for the 2024 season.
The @USFLBreakers just re-signed two major defensive playmakers:
LB Jerod Fernandez
LB Vontae DiggsBoth have been key to New Orleans' success over the past two #USFL seasons. Big-time retentions for 2024. pic.twitter.com/vhukSqjcqx
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) September 29, 2023
LB Jerod Fernandez
Jerod Fernandez has been a stud for the breakers defense through two seasons. He was an All-USFL linebacker in 2022, posting 86 total tackles and 1.5 sacks in what was an outstanding campaign.
A BIG third down stop from @J4nando 👏🌊🌊
📺: @NBCSports | @PeacockTV pic.twitter.com/sSzvZZqVQ0
— New Orleans Breakers (@USFLBreakers) June 26, 2022
During the 2023 season, Fernandez was once again a pillar on the defensive side of the football. He started all ten games, finishing the year with 65 tackles, 3 TFL, an interception, and 0.5 sacks.
What makes Jerod so important to this unit is his leadership. His skill sets – both physically and mentally – make him into an elite playmaker at the position.
LB Vontae Diggs
Vontae Diggs is another major retention for New Orleans, serving as an electrifying character – both on and off the field.
POV: You're @Diggsy13 about to sack the QB 👀 pic.twitter.com/20YIXdgL03
— USFL (@USFL) June 18, 2023
Diggs made a name for himself during the 2022 USFL season, where he registered 75 tackles, two sacks, and an interception for the Breakers.
In 2023, he was outstanding once again, finishing with 69 tackles, 6 TFL, 2.5 sacks, and three interceptions.
How about those @USFLBreakers? A broken play results in a pick six for Vontae Diggs, who's had an outstanding season for New Orleans so far.
With less than a quarter down, the Breakers hold a commanding 17-0 lead. #USFL | @Diggsy13 pic.twitter.com/1G3BCHMG8c
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) June 10, 2023
With the duo back in action for 2024, the New Orleans Breakers defense is in excellent shape. Both Diggs and Fernandez have some of the best chemistry in the USFL, and will look to make another postseason push next year.
waiting on my time and when it come Ima take it- granny told me, you just gotta be patient! #WOLF video ==> @KeeganHartman1 pic.twitter.com/yNLgVNPKUL
— KingTve♠️ (@Diggsy13) July 27, 2023
Final Thoughts
After a slow start to the offseason, General Manager Ryan Jones has been aggressive in signing athletes on expiring contracts:
WR Jonathan Adams
OL Jackson Kramer
DT Connor Christian
DT Djimon Brooks
DE Anree Saint-Amour
S Jarey Elder
P Matt White
LS Turner Bernard
What are your thoughts on Jerod Fernandez re-signing with the New Orleans Breakers? Will Vontae Diggs make the All-USFL team next season? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
