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Saints activate Will Smith for tomorrow’s game

File photo of New Orleans Saints defensive end Smith holding back Minnesota Vikings running back Peterson during their NFL football game in Minneapolis

New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith (R) holds back Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson for a loss of five yards during the second half of their NFL football game in Minneapolis in this December 18, 2011 file photo. All four players associated with the New Orleans Saints bounty scandal had their suspensions unanimously overturned September 7, 2012 by a three-man arbitration panel, and are eligible to play this weekend, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said. REUTERS/Eric Miller/Files (UNITED STATES - Tags: SPORT FOOTBALL)

REUTERS

The Saints have activated defensive end Will Smith, who was just given a temporary reprieve from his bounty suspension.

The team announced it in a flurry of moves Saturday, setting the stage for him to return to the field tomorrow against the Redskins.

They also have received roster exemptions for linebackers Barrett Ruud and Jonathan Vilma.

The Saints also released wide receiver Adrian Arrington and fullback Korey Hall, and placed rookie offensive tackle Marcel Jones on injured reserve.

Getting Smith back on the field could make a significant defense, as the Saints need all the pass rush they can find up front under new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

Of course, the emotional lift he’ll bring will be greater for a team that’s felt persecuted throughout this process.