Dannell Ellerbe on joining Saints: 'It's a place that knows how to win'

Dannell Ellerbe is looking forward to a fresh start with the New Orleans Saints, after two inconsistent seasons with the Miami Dolphins.

Ellerbe signed a five-year, $35-million contract with the Dolphins in 2013, after winning a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens the previous season.

The 29-year-old recorded 101 tackles and two forced fumbles that year, but was a liability in coverage. He spent almost the entire 2014 campaign on injured reserve with a hip injury.

After being traded to the Saints this March, the inside linebacker is looking forward to contributing to his new franchise.

"It's guys that want to win. I can honestly say it’s a place that knows how to win," Ellerbe told Shawn Stinson of the Richmond Country Daily Journal. "I'm glad I'm getting back to a place with a great fan base and sold-out games. I'm looking forward to it. It's always awesome when you have a great backing, when you have sold-out games and the fans got your back and are 100 percent behind you."

Ellerbe is slated to start at inside linebacker for the Saints, alongside 2015 first-round pick Stephone Anthony, and expressed excitement about playing under defensive coordinator Rob Ryan.

"Coming off my injury and for them to want me to come and build their defense back to the way they want it," Ellerbe said. "They are trying to rebuild their defense. For them to think of me is awesome…it speaks a lot. I have been watching Rob Ryan for a long time, been hearing a lot about him. He's a fun guy to play for. A lot of the guys are happy I'm there, they welcomed me with open arms. The sky’s the limit for this team. We're rebuilding, especially on defense."

With the Ravens, Ellerbe specialized in run support, but regressed badly in that area with the Dolphins. Presented with an opportunity to shine with the Saints after two middling years, he may be poised for a comeback.