Chris Owens

Cleveland Browns cornerback Chris Owens in action during an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, in Cleveland. Jacksonville won 32-28. (AP Photo/David Richard)

(David Richard)

Former Atlanta Falcons cornerback Chris Owens has signed with the New Orleans Saints, coach Sean Payton confirmed Thursday.

ESPN first reported the news Wednesday night.

Selected by the Falcons in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Owens played in Atlanta for four seasons. He split time between the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins in 2013 and played for the Kansas City Chiefs last season.

Owens signed with the Detroit Lions in May but was placed on the injured reserve at the end of camp and then released last month.

In 83 career games, Owens has 173 tackles and three interceptions.

The Saints could be seeking depth in the secondary. Cornerback Keenan Lewis suffered a knee injury on Nov. 15 at Washington and did not practice Wednesday. Rookie cornerback Damian Swann is also out after suffering two concussions.

The Saints would have to make a corresponding roster move to add Owens to the 53-man roster.