Watch: A.J. Klein scores pick-six in revenge game vs. Panthers

New Orleans Saints linebacker A.J. Klein intercepted rookie Carolina Panthers quarterback Will Grier and returned the ball for a touchdown.

“Revenge games” are a popular narrative in the NFL, whenever players get the opportunity to square up against their former team. But that added motivation doesn’t always materialize into big plays.

New Orleans Saints linebacker A.J. Klein is one player who can celebrate a bright moment against his old team. He intercepted Carolina Panthers quarterback Will Grier and sprinted into the end-zone for a defensive touchdown on the return, and took some time to celebrate with his teammates in the end zone.

It’s significant because Klein started his NFL career with the Panthers, backing up Luke Kuechly from 2013 to 2016. He joined the Saints on a free agent contract before the 2017 season, and finally got to deliver some payback to the team that showed him the door.

While it’s still early, this turnover-for-a-score likely sealed a Saints victory in Week 17. It gave the Saints a 21-0 lead, which they increased to 28-0 a few minutes later with a Tre’Quan Smith touchdown pass. But before they did that, Grier was spun down hard to the turf and carted to the locker room. The game is in benched backup Kyle Allen’s hands, and the Panthers probably hope it will be over sooner rather than later.

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