After drafting an offensive lineman in Round 1, New Orleans makes headlines by locking in its quarterback depth
While the New Orleans Saints made a modest splash during the NFL Draft by selecting Michigan offensive lineman Cesar Ruiz in the first round, it was their quarterback activity the following day that stole the spotlight.
The team announced a two-year, $21 million extension for do-it-all playmaker Taysom Hill, and reports quickly followed that they were nearing a deal with former Tampa Bay quarterback Jameis Winston on a one-year contract.
A Quarterback Room Full of Questions
Hill remains one of the NFL’s most versatile threats. While officially listed as a quarterback, he logged time all over the field in 2019, recording:
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19 receptions for 234 yards
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27 rushing attempts for 156 yards
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7 total touchdowns
His dynamic skill set has made him a fan favorite and led many analysts to believe he was next in line to succeed Drew Brees, who is expected to retire and move into broadcasting after this season.
However, the potential signing of Jameis Winston adds a compelling wrinkle to that storyline. Despite leading the NFL with 5,109 passing yards in 2019, Winston also topped the league with 30 interceptions. He was the first player in league history to record 30 TDs and 30 INTs in a single season.
Still, head coach Sean Payton is widely respected for his quarterback development. If he can rein in Winston’s decision-making and teach him the nuances of the Saints’ system, the 26-year-old could make a strong case for the starting job down the line.
How This Affects Future Odds
As of now, Winning Poker Network Sportsbooks list the Saints at +470 to win the NFC Conference, trailing only:
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San Francisco (+405)
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Tampa Bay (+446)
And ahead of: -
Dallas (+825)
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Seattle (+951)
The arrival of Tom Brady in Tampa Bay has significantly increased the competitiveness of the NFC South, meaning the Saints face a tougher road than in years past.
Still, this latest quarterback news doesn’t immediately shift New Orleans’ future odds. As long as Drew Brees remains healthy, the Saints are among the NFC’s elite. But if injury strikes, and either Hill or Winston are thrust into the starting role prematurely, it could spell trouble for New Orleans’ title hopes.
For the Saints to cash in on their current odds, Brees must deliver in the postseason—something that’s eluded him in recent years.
