Examining the New Orleans Saints Quarterback Situation
By Jon Dove
The New Orleans Saints figure to have Drew Brees back at quarterback this year, but his time in the league is running out.
Drew Brees will turn 40-years old in January of next year which is an obvious sign that the New Orleans Saints need to start thinking about the future. Brees has talked about wanting to play a few more years, but at some point father time will catch up.
New Orleans currently doesn’t have a long-term replacement identified. Taysom Hill is the only other quarterback under contract and hasn’t shown much in preseason action. Hill’s college career featured some nice moments, but was also plagued by injuries.
The Saints would be wise to use one of their 2018 NFL Draft picks on a young developmental quarterback. This year’s draft has a lot of quarterback talent and depth.
Some of the mid to later round quarterbacks with upside include Washington State’s Luke Falk, Richmond’s Kyle Lauletta, Louisville’s Lamar Jackson and Western Kentucky’s Mike White. Each of these guys have starter potential.
Related Story: Luke Falk Scouting Report
Jackson would be the most interesting prospect to land with the Saints. Sean Payton is known as a creative offensive mind and would work to get the most out of Jackson’s skill set. The Saints would also be able to offer Jackson time to develop behind Brees.
Falk is another prospect who would be a good fit with the Saints. He has a quick release and does a good job delivering the ball with accuracy. His final season at Washington State didn’t go as planned, but he still has plenty of upside.
Either way, the Saints would be wise to find a way to add some youth to the quarterback room. Brees has already lasted longer than the average quarterback.