The New Orleans Saints are at a crossroads when it comes to the quarterback position. With questions surrounding their long-term future under center, the team has been linked to a potential trade for a young quarterback with intriguing but unproven potential.

Saints Still Searching for a Franchise QB

Ever since Drew Brees retired following the 2020 season, the Saints have struggled to find stability at quarterback. Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and now Derek Carr have all taken turns leading the offense, but none have solidified themselves as the long-term answer. While Carr is a serviceable veteran, his performance last season raised doubts about whether he can take the Saints to the next level.

Given this uncertainty, it makes sense that New Orleans is being mentioned as a potential landing spot for a young quarterback with upside. If the Saints can acquire a promising signal-caller through a trade, they could position themselves well for the future while still competing in the present.

Who Could the Saints Be Targeting?

The exact identity of the quarterback in question remains unknown, but there are a few logical candidates who could be available via trade:

• Mac Jones (New England Patriots) – After a rocky tenure in New England, Jones could be looking for a fresh start. He showed promise as a rookie but struggled over the past two seasons due to coaching instability and a lack of weapons.
• Trey Lance (Dallas Cowboys) – Lance has been stuck behind Dak Prescott in Dallas after being traded from San Francisco. Given his raw athleticism and first-round pedigree, he could be a high-upside option for the Saints.
• Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans) – The Titans drafted Will Levis last year, which could make Willis expendable. He has mobility and arm strength but remains a developmental project.
• Zach Wilson (New York Jets) – Wilson has been a disappointment in New York, but perhaps a change of scenery could unlock his potential.

Why a Trade Makes Sense for New Orleans

For the Saints, acquiring a young quarterback with untapped potential could be a smart move. Rather than relying solely on Carr, they could develop a future starter while still competing in a weak NFC South division. A trade would also allow them to avoid using a high draft pick on a quarterback while still investing in the position.

Additionally, head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak could work with a young QB in a structured system, potentially getting the most out of his talent. If the Saints make a move, they would be betting on their ability to develop a quarterback who hasn’t yet reached his ceiling.

Will the Saints Make a Move?

The Saints’ front office has shown a willingness to be aggressive in acquiring talent, whether through trades, free agency, or the draft. If they truly believe one of these young quarterbacks has the potential to be their long-term answer, they may be willing to pull the trigger on a deal.

As the offseason progresses, it will be worth monitoring whether New Orleans takes a chance on a quarterback with unknown potential. If they do, it could be a defining move for the franchise’s future.