5 quarterbacks Saints can add to replace Jameis Winston

2. Drew Lock – Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos have not made any indications that Drew Lock may be available, but there are no reasons that he should not be. The Broncos have fully committed to Teddy Bridgewater as their starter and, for the right price, the Broncos should absolutely move Lock.

The Saints should see what the Broncos want for Drew Lock and evaluate what it will cost to bring him in. He is a longer commitment than the Saints will necessarily love, but if he can keep the Saints competitive this season and even take the team to the playoffs, his presence alone creates a hyper-competitive situation, which should elevate both he and Jameis Winston.

When Lock is on, he is fantastic, throwing with precision and speed. Even at his worst, Lock is not necessarily turnover-prone, which is fantastic for a fill-in quarterback. It would not take much adjustment for Lock to fit into the current Saints’ offensive scheme, which is a highlight of this move.

1. Deshaun Watson – Houston Texans

The Saints have been one of the dark horse contenders for landing Deshaun Watson since the relationship between the Texans and Watson first became public. They have come in and out of the conversation, but have never been the front name like the Dolphins and Panthers have been.

However, if there were ever a time to make it happen, that time is now.

This is a long-term commitment, yes. This is going to cost a ton of draft capital plus Michael Thomas, yes. This will likely cost the team their relationship with Taysom Hill and Jameis Winston, yes. At a certain point, though, the team can ignore those issues and become an instant Super Bowl contender.

Are there legitimate concerns for this trade? Absolutely. Watson’s legal proceedings and the numerous accusations of sexual assault are still ongoing. Plus, Watson would have to waive his no-trade clause in order to approve a trade to New Orleans, something he has been a bit hesitant to do for any team not named the Miami Dolphins.

However, if the Saints can include phrasing and clauses in the trade to protect themselves in the chance that the court rules against Watson and they can convince Watson to come down to NOLA, they should absolutely make this move and secure the long-term success of the franchise.