As the New Orleans Saints struggle, several pressing issues need to be addressed. After starting the season 2-0, things have taken a downward turn.
A major concern for the Saints right now is their significant injury problems. They will head into Thursday Night Football without starting quarterback Derek Carr and their top two receivers, Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed.
Olave is sidelined with a concussion from the Week 6 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while Shaheed is dealing with a serious knee injury that could potentially end his season.
This means rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler will make his second career start, targeting wide receivers Bub Means, Mason Tipton, and Cedrick Wilson.
On a brighter note, the trade market is becoming active. With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 5, several notable trades have occurred recently, including Davante Adams moving to the New York Jets and Amari Cooper being traded to the Buffalo Bills.
One of these trades could significantly impact the Saints.
The Chargers, Steelers and Saints are among a number of teams reaching out to the Jets about WR Mike Williams, per sources. pic.twitter.com/2CVLwH8375
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) October 17, 2024
With Adams being traded to the Jets, that left an odd man out of the action. Adams, Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard will be Aaron Rodgers’ top three wideouts, meaning Mike Williams is headed for less playing time.
Or, he might be leaving New York entirely. The Jets have reportedly put Williams on the trading block following the Adams deal, and the Saints are already showing interest.
If the Saints can secure a victory on Thursday night, they would improve to 3-4, which isn’t a hopeless situation. There are still plenty of games left, and right now, survival is key.
If New Orleans were to trade for Williams and manage to get Carr and Olave back in the coming weeks, they could still contend for a wild card spot. Three of their next five games are against the Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, and L.A. Rams—matchups that are very winnable and could keep the Saints competitive.
However, Williams is just one piece of the puzzle. Olave needs to recover, Carr must return to health, and Rattler will need to step up and deliver some wins under pressure.
Adding Williams would provide the Saints with a strong target capable of making deep catches, something they will miss with Shaheed out.
