Saints bring in FA DE Wootton

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The New Orleans Saints are visiting with free-agent defensive end Corey Wootton, according to a league source.

Wootton, 27, spent last season with the Minnesota Vikings after spending his first four years with the Chicago Bears. He has 12 career sacks, including seven with the Bears in 2012.

Wootton could help shore up the Saints' depth after they lost end/tackle Tyrunn Walker in free agency. The long-armed, 6-foot-6, 270-pounder has the versatility to play end or tackle -- or possibly even line up on the edge in pass-rushing situations.

ESPN Vikings reporter Ben Goessling wrote that Wootton didn't live up to high hopes during his one season in Minnesota, finishing with just one sack while playing only 275 snaps in 15 games. But now that Wootton is a full year removed from hip surgery, a bounce-back is possible.

Wootton likely won't break the bank and might be available for a veteran minimum deal that qualifies for a low salary-cap cost under the veteran minimum salary benefit.

The Saints are also scheduled to bring in former Vikings receiver Greg Jennings for a visit this week, though he will likely cost a little bit more.

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