National Football League

Source: Saints volunteer for HOF game

Published Feb. 23, 2012 12:00 a.m. ET

Alex Marvez

The New Orleans Saints are willing to play in this season’s first preseason game.

A source told FOXSports.com that the Saints have volunteered to play in the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 5 in Canton, Ohio.

The appearance would coincide with the induction of former Saints tackle Willie Roaf into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Roaf, who was elected to the Hall earlier this month, played his first nine NFL seasons in New Orleans before ending his career with Kansas City.

Franchises with players who are being inducted are usually chosen for the Hall of Fame Game. Other players being honored this year are running back Curtis Martin (New York Jets), defensive end Chris Doleman (Minnesota), defensive back Jack Butler (Pittsburgh), defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy (Seattle) and center Dermontti Dawson (Pittsburgh).

The Hall of Fame Game was canceled last season because of the NFL lockout.

The Saints last played in the Hall of Fame Game against Pittsburgh in 2007.