3 Saints free agent predictions after Deshaun Watson chose Browns
By Najy Masri
Quarterback
Current QBs on roster: Taysom Hill, Ian Book, Blake Bortles
Most Saints fans will immediately turn their attention to Jameis Winston as the Saints pivot from their aggressive pursuit of Watson.
After today’s trade, free-agent QB Jameis Winston now is expected to be back in play for the New Orleans Saints, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2022
Winston, who has also received interest from the Colts, could provide the Saints with the theme of the offseason thus far – continuity. One interesting turn of events related to the Watson sweepstakes is the availability of Baker Mayfield and possibly Matt Ryan, both of whom could be options for the Colts at quarterback.
While it would be extremely unlikely that the Falcons would trade Ryan to their bitter rivals, Mayfield, in addition to Jimmy Garrappolo, provides other possible trade targets for New Orleans.
The NFL draft also provides the Saints an option at quarterback either in a trade-up or at selection 18, including Kenny Pickett, Matt Corral, and Malik Wallis, although Pickett is the only college quarterback deemed advanced enough to start as a rookie.
All in all, the Saints, in addition to the Seahawks, Colts, Panthers, and now possibly the Falcons, are the only remaining NFL teams with a true hole at quarterback.
Prediction: Jameis Winston re-signs with the Saints on a one-year deal worth $12 million with bonuses up to $18 million