Malcolm Jenkins said the New Orleans Saints are like family after returning to the NFL franchise via free agency.

Jenkins re-joined the Saints for a second spell in New Orleans following his departure from the Philadelphia Eagles.

The 32-year-old safety started his professional career with the Saints in 2009, helping New Orleans to victory in Super Bowl XLIV before moving to the Eagles in 2014.

After another Super Bowl triumph and five years in Philadelphia, three-time Pro Bowler Jenkins is back with the Saints on a four-year deal.

"I am very, very excited to be coming back to New Orleans, especially at this point in my career," Jenkins told reporters on Saturday. "It kind of feels like everything's coming full circle and obviously with the success that the team has had in the last few years, being able to come back and just help push the team just with that one more step that I think it needs to be back in that Super Bowl again.

"I'm super excited and grateful for Mrs. Benson, Mickey Loomis and Sean [Payton] for giving me the opportunities to come back. New Orleans is family. I still have a place down there and my second daughter's middle name is NOLA because I love that place. I'm excited to be back in the community.

"My foundation has maintained our programs in New Orleans over the last six years. It feels like I'm coming back home."