The New Orleans Saints have signed WR Devery Henderson to a four-year contract, it was announced today by the club. Henderson, who has been one of the NFL's most dangerous deep threats since 2006, has averaged over 23 yards per catch over the last three seasons.

"In 2008 Devery had his best season and we are pleased to get this deal done," said Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis. "He brings a big-play component to our offense that is important and he is a hard worker who continues to improve."

Henderson has 18 receptions of 40 yards or more during his career. In 2008, he set a career-high with 793 yards on 32 catches – averaging nearly 25 yards per grab to lead the NFL – and also rushed for 33 yards on four carries. A second-round pick in 2004 out of LSU, Henderson has started 32 of 60 games in his career.

"We believe Devery is just beginning to reach his potential," said Coach Sean Payton. "Every year since we arrived in 2006 he has added a new facet to his game. The big plays stand out because there have been so many, but he's also developed into a consistent receiver. He fits in well with our group at wide receiver and has been a big part of the success we've had on offense."

In 2008, 27 of Henderson's catches went for a first down and he put together a streak of four straight games with a reception of 50 yards or more. His average of 24.8 per catch was a club record, breaking the mark of 23.3 that he set in 2006. Henderson had two grabs of over 80 yards, including an 84-yard touchdown in the season-opening victory over Tampa Bay in the Superdome and an 81-yard reception vs. San Francisco, Sept. 28.

For his career, Henderson has 106 catches for 2,290 yards, with 14 touchdowns. He has added nine rushes for 76 yards – including a 30-yard burst in 2008 – and a touchdown.