"The New Orleans Saints didn't waste time replacing departed tailback Reggie Bush. They agreed to a four-year deal with free agent tailback Darren Sproles worth $14 million with $6 million guaranteed.

A league source confirmed the deal, which was originally reported by FOXSports.com's Alex Marvez.

"The skill set that Reggie had was certainly unique. Darren may have a comparable skill set. That would be a pretty good comparison," Saints Coach Sean Payton said earlier Thursday before the deal was finalized -- though he insisted the team wasn't looking for a Plan B when it began pursuing Sproles. "I think (Sproles) is an exceptional talent. He is very versatile and dynamic."

Although he is undersized at 5 foot 6, 190 pounds, Sproles has long been lauded for his receiving and blocking abilities, in addition to his natural speed."