By Ross Jackson
Merry Christmas! In the spirit of the season, we’ve prepared a Christmas wishlist for the New Orleans Saints. Even though they’ve been more naughty than nice in their 5-10 season thus far, everyone deserves a gift. In fact, the Saints are desperate for several.
So here’s what we hope Santa will be leaving under the tree for New Orleans on Airline Drive.
Good Health
The Saints have seen 14 Week 1 starters miss a combined 63 games so far this season. With starting offensive linemen Erik McCoy and Lucas Patrick likely to miss the final two games of the year, that number will only go up. Going into next season, the Saints would benefit from a massive improvement in health, something they’ve had on their wishlist for multiple seasons now.
A Franchise Quarterback
Whether it’s a new addition, or someone realizing the potential from inside the building, the Saints need a franchise passer in order to turn any corners in the future.
A Crystal Ball
To help make sure they hire the right next head coach.
A Speed Pass Rusher
While the Saints’ defense went from No. 29 to No. 13 in pressure generation this year, the team still has the league’s seventh-fewest quick pressures, which are pressures created in under 2.5 seconds after a snap. New Orleans got a taste of what the value of those plays are having defensive end Chase Young in the building, however he may not be back in 2025.
Reinforced Trenches
Whether to help the team’s offensive line or improve the defensive line, if the game is won within the trenches, the Saints are a long way from winning.
A Big-Bodied Wide Receiver
To give the team a reliable and consistent contested catch option on the outside that can take over a game. New Orleans has not had such a presence in their offense since the best days of former wideout Michael Thomas.
$63 Million
To get back even with the salary cap without restructuring contracts.
More Draft Picks
Because the team is $63 million over the salary cap, the draft is their best short-term building option.
