New Orleans Saints
New Orleans Saints Make Unexpected Trade With Detroit Lions—Saints Gain Fifth-Round Pick Swap
New Orleans Saints Make Unexpected Trade With Detroit Lions—Saints Gain Fifth-Round Pick Swap
In a surprising turn of events at the NFL’s spring meetings, the New Orleans Saints and Detroit Lions quietly consummated a draft-day swap that has sent ripples through both front offices. The Saints have acquired an exchange of fifth-round selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, moving up eight spots in the middle of the board in exchange for a later pick, giving them greater flexibility to target developmental players or package for a future move.
This low-profile deal represents a calculated maneuver for New Orleans, whose brass has made it clear that replenishing depth across multiple position groups is a priority as they prepare for the post-Derek Carr era. Meanwhile, Detroit, flush with draft capital after several recent trades, was willing to accommodate the Saints to accumulate additional late-round assets.
Terms of the Trade
Saints Receive: Detroit’s 2025 fifth-round pick (No. 164 overall)
Lions Receive: New Orleans’ 2025 fifth-round pick (No. 172 overall)
The net result: New Orleans moves from pick No. 172 to pick No. 164 in the fifth round, while Detroit picks up an extra late selection at No. 172 to complement an already generous cache of draft choices.
Why the Saints Made the Move
So why did a franchise known for aggressive big-ticket trades invest effort into swapping fifth-round spots? According to saints.com, general manager Terry Fontenot views the middle rounds of the 2025 class as particularly deep at positions of need—cornerback, interior offensive line, and rotational pass-rusher.
“When you study the tape and the board, you realize there are quality players still on the board in the 150–170 range,” Fontenot told reporters. “We believe moving up eight spots gives us a chance to grab a potential starter or high-character depth piece before someone else scoops him up.”
Head coach Kellen Moore, who is entering his second year at the helm, echoed that assessment:
“We’re looking for players who can contribute early,” Moore said. “A pick in the early fifth round can be more valuable than a late fourth when the board is flush with talent in certain areas. This swap fits our long-term plan.”
The Saints also reportedly see the deal as a hedge against injury. With concerns lingering about the durability of key veterans—particularly at linebacker and safety—New Orleans is eager to bolster its roster competition and roster flexibility with young, cost-controlled talent.
Detroit’s Perspective
For the Lions, who under general manager Brad Holmes have aggressively traded away picks to move up for players like quarterback Jared Goff and defensive tackle Aidan Hutchinson, the cost of moving down eight spots in the fifth round was minimal.
> “We’ve been in a position to offer picks to teams who need them, and the Saints had a mutual need,” Holmes explained at the NFL meetings in Minnesota. “That 172nd pick helps us fill out the bottom of our roster and gives us more room for later-round gambles.”
Detroit’s head coach Dan Campbell also sees the benefit of accumulating picks, especially given the potential for late-round steals in this year’s class:
> “When you’ve got the kind of depth we’ll have, you can afford to move around a little bit,” Campbell said. “We’ll use pick No. 172 on a high-upside kid who could surprise us in training camp.”
Context: Saints in the Post-Carr Landscape
The timing of this trade coincides with a period of transition for the Saints. Following Derek Carr’s abrupt retirement due to a shoulder injury, New Orleans has been forced to reorient its quarterback strategy, relying on a mix of Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough, and Jake Haener to vie for the starting job. With pressing needs at multiple roster spots—and without the certainty of a veteran franchise signal-caller—the Saints are emphasizing flexibility and depth through the draft.
This pick swap underscores that philosophy. By moving up in the fifth round, the Saints hope to secure an “NFL-ready” prospect—perhaps a day-three offensive tackle with starting potential or a special-teams ace who can contribute from Week 1. Those are the types of contributors that coach Moore and his staff value highly, especially in a division as competitive as the NFC South.
Historical Precedent and Draft-Day Implications
The Saints have a history of turning mid-round picks into valuable contributors. Notable examples include wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith (fourth round, 2018) and linebacker Kiko Alonso (second round, 2018), both of whom became meaningful rotational players. That track record gives credence to the idea that a savvy evaluator like Fontenot can identify hidden gems deep into the draft.
“The Saints are masters at discovering talent late in the draft. Moving up eight spots in the fifth round might not sound like much, but it can make the difference in getting your board’s last coveted prospect.”
Draft-niks across the country have already begun updating their big boards to reflect the new spot—No. 164 overall—and mock draft outlets will be evaluating which prospects are likely to be available at that slot.
What Comes Next
As the league calendar marches toward late July, both teams will continue their preparation. New Orleans will finalize its quarterback competition, refine its free-agent plan, and leverage its newly positioned draft pick to lock in a priority target. Meanwhile, Detroit will use the extra selection at No. 172 to perhaps reach for a developmental player or sweeten a future draft-day deal.
The Saints-Lions trade may have flown under the radar compared to blockbuster deals, but its strategic value is undeniable. In the NFL’s tight margins, a single pick can alter a franchise’s trajectory. For New Orleans, that pick swap represents yet another calculated move in their mission to remain perennial contenders in the NFC.
Whether the player chosen at No. 164 becomes a household name or a special-teams stalwart, the front office will know that—in the chess match of the NFL draft—every square on the board matters.
New Orleans Saints
I’m An NFL Star Who Has Made $52 Million In Career Earnings – But I Could Have Made Money As Wall Street Investor
I’m An NFL Star Who Has Made $52 Million In Career Earnings – But I Could Have Made Money As Wall Street Investor
I’m an NFL star who has made $52 million in career earnings – but I could have made money as Wall Street investor
A current NFL veteran could’ve earned money as a player in the Wall Street investing world.
New Orleans Saints utility player Taysom Hill has played in the NFL for eight seasons, and he’s made a name for himself.
The 34-year-old has been versatile in his time in the league, as he’s been featured as a quarterback, running back, fullback, tight end, and even a kick returner, among other special teams positions.
Hill has earned $52 million in his career thanks to his abilities, but he almost decided to leave behind his 6-foot-2, 221-pound football talents.
Hill played quarterback in college at BYU and suffered his second season-ending injury in his junior campaign in 2015.
After the injury, Hill reached the point of using his finance major at BYU’s Marriott School of Management to his advantage.
He hit the books and earned an internship at a venture capital firm called Pelion Venture Partners, which funds early-stage technology companies before they go public or even receive revenue to garner a huge return on investment.
The Idaho native declined to participate in a quarterback camp circuit and instead opted to take part in a summer of building financial models and listening in on meetings in New York with European investors.
It was at that point when Hill was beginning to wonder whether he was going to give up on his football career to pursue Wall Street.”I was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho,” Hill told USA Today in 2015. “I had no idea what went on on Wall Street, and then I started to see all these things and see the opportunities and I loved it.
“It filled the void of not being able to complete and play and all those things, but I was also able to progress in other areas of my life.”The NFL, that’s my No. 1 goal. But I’ve also had two season-ending injuries. I’m not stupid.
“I know things can change like that, and I don’t want to have something like that happen and not have anything (else).”During his time with the internship, Hill was also in meetings trying to raise capital for a new venture fund worth over $200 million.
He would go on to suffer two more season-ending injuries with the Cougars.
Hill has several college records for BYU, including rushing yards and rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
He would elect to pursue the NFL instead of the Wall Street world, but the constant threat of being injured caused him to go undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft.Hill would latch onto the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad in 2017 before joining the Saints in that same season- and he hasn’t looked back since.
In his second season, he posted six receiving touchdowns as a quarterback, which, of course, led the position.
Hill signed a two-year deal worth around $21 million the following year in 2020.
Then, he showcased his do-it-all skills in the 2020 campaign, completing 928 passing yards and 457 rushing yards, as well as seven rushing touchdowns, which led all quarterbacks.
Hill has earned $52 million in his career, but he’s still had the injury bug throughout his time in the league.The most recent one saw him suffer a season-ending torn ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2024 season.
Hill, who’s in the final year of his four-year, $40 million deal he signed in 2022, will hope to play in his ninth season in 2025 when he’ll be at the age of 35.
New Orleans Saints
Breece Hall ignites new hope for New Orleans Saints as they plot transformative path forward
Breece Hall ignites new hope for New Orleans Saints as they plot transformative path forward
An Offseason of Opportunity for the Saints
The New Orleans Saints find themselves at a crucial crossroads this offseason, facing challenges yet brimming with the potential for renewal. Following the retirement of quarterback Derek Carr, the organization has carved out nearly $30 million in cap space, providing them with the financial freedom to maneuver strategically. This economic advantage, combined with solid draft assets, sets the stage for the Saints to make transformative moves that could significantly enhance their roster. With multiple positions needing attention, pursuing young, dynamic talent through trades appears to be a viable strategy for the Saints.
Breece Hall: A Potential Game-Changer
One name emerging in trade discussions is Breece Hall, the promising running back currently with the New York Jets. Analysts suggest that Hall could be an exceptional fit for the Saints if the Jets decide to make him available. This possibility arises from an evident need within the Saints’ roster, particularly as the team is expected to rely more on its running game and defense in the wake of Carr’s departure.
As noted by observers, “Alvin Kamara is one of the league’s best runners, but he’s aging, and even though they signed Cam Akers, they need someone who’s eventually going to take over the offense when Kamara retires.” This insight underscores the urgency for the Saints to seek a reliable successor for Kamara. While Akers brings promise to the backfield, Hall could offer a more compelling complement to what Kamara brings to the table, with his combination of speed, agility, and innate football instincts.
The Strategic Move for Both Teams
For the Jets, a trade involving Hall presents a logical step forward. With a wealth of talent at the running back position and the threat of free agency on the horizon, moving Hall could allow the Jets to capitalize on their surplus and gain valuable assets in exchange. This decision would acknowledge Hall’s potential while simultaneously freeing him to explore new opportunities elsewhere.
Acquiring Hall would not only fortify the Saints’ current offensive capabilities but also serve as a strategic transition towards the future. The potential pairing of Hall with Kamara paints an enticing picture of a dual-threat backfield that can challenge opposing defenses in creative ways. As Kamara is likely entering the twilight of his career, adding a dynamic young talent like Hall would lightens the load on him, facilitating a seamless transition for the offense as the team evolves with time.
The Broader Implications for the Saints
The pursuit of Breece Hall is emblematic of the Saints’ larger mission this offseason. As they aim to assemble a competitive roster amid a fast-evolving NFL landscape, identifying and assimilating youthful talent will be vital. A partnership between Hall and Kamara could revitalize the Saints’ rushing attack while laying the groundwork for sustained success in the coming years.
In summary, as the Saints navigate a landscape filled with uncertainty and challenge, the pursuit of Breece Hall emerges as a significant opportunity. This potential move could mark a transformative step in their journey to redefine their identity by marrying experienced leadership with youthful vitality. As the offseason unfolds, the vision of a formidable backfield duo is one that holds the promise to elevate the Saints’ future ambitions.
New Orleans Saints
WELCOME BACK TO THE SAINTS: Nation’s No. 1 Player 7-Foot-9 Tall Shocks NFL World as He Re-Signs to New Orleans Saints
WELCOME BACK TO THE SAINTS: Nation’s No. 1 Player 7-Foot-9 Tall Shocks NFL World as He Re-Signs to New Orleans Saints Over Miami Dolphins, 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles
In a jaw-dropping move that has left the NFL world stunned and Saints fans rejoicing, the nation’s No. 1 ranked player, a towering 7-foot-9 superstar simply known as “The Giant”, has officially re-signed with the New Orleans Saints, turning down massive free-agent offers from the Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, and Philadelphia Eagles.
The deal, announced early Tuesday morning, ends weeks of speculation about the future of the game’s most physically dominant player. The 27-year-old two-way sensation, whose unmatched size and skill have redefined modern football, inked a 5-year, $440 million extension to remain in the Crescent City — the largest contract ever signed by a non-quarterback in NFL history.
An Unprecedented Talent
Standing at a mind-blowing 7 feet 9 inches tall and weighing 410 pounds of raw athleticism, The Giant is unlike anything the league has ever seen. Whether dominating the trenches as a defensive end or catching passes over double coverage as a tight end, his versatility and sheer presence make him a walking mismatch every time he steps onto the field.
Since entering the league as the No. 1 overall pick in 2020, he has become the face of the franchise — and arguably the entire NFL. In just five seasons, he has earned 5 Pro Bowl selections, 3 Defensive Player of the Year awards, and has scored 37 total touchdowns in short-yardage offensive packages.
He was the only player in the 2024 season to finish with 15+ sacks and 10+ touchdown receptions, earning MVP consideration and sending social media into a frenzy after every performance.
The Free Agency Circus
Heading into the 2025 offseason, speculation around The Giant’s future reached a fever pitch. The Miami Dolphins were reportedly offering a $460 million package. The 49ers dangled the opportunity to play alongside Brock Purdy and chase a Super Bowl with Kyle Shanahan. The Eagles offered front-loaded guarantees and a mega endorsement deal in partnership with Nike.
Yet despite the glitz and glamour from every corner of the league, the Louisiana legend chose to remain loyal.
“I built something special here,” he said during a press conference at the Saints’ facility. “This city believed in me before anyone else. I’m not leaving my people. I’m not leaving the Dome. I’m not leaving New Orleans.”
A Franchise Icon
For the Saints, locking down their generational talent is more than a win — it’s a message to the rest of the league. After missing the playoffs in 2023 and narrowly advancing to the NFC Divisional round in 2024, the team now reaffirms its status as a true Super Bowl contender.
Head coach Dennis Allen, who’s coached The Giant since his rookie year, couldn’t hide his excitement.
“This guy changes everything. You don’t scheme against him — you pray he takes a play off,” Allen said. “He’s the anchor of our defense, a red-zone nightmare on offense, and the leader of our locker room. We’re building around him — period.”
The Saints also released a short tribute video on social media, captioned: “OUR GIANT RETURNS. NOLA FOREVER.” Within an hour, it trended globally on X (formerly Twitter), racking up over 10 million views.
Legacy in the Making
Many already consider The Giant a lock for Canton if he continues at this pace. He’s shattered several records for a player at his size, including fastest 40-yard dash (4.58 seconds) by a player over 400 pounds, and most sacks by a player in their first three seasons (52). His highlights are the stuff of legend — from leaping one-handed interceptions to stiff-arming three defenders into oblivion on a single run.
But for the man himself, it’s not about the accolades.
“I’m here to win a Super Bowl. Nothing else matters,” he said. “And I want to do it wearing black and gold.”
The City Reacts
The atmosphere in New Orleans is electric. Fans poured into the streets near the Superdome following the announcement, waving Saints flags and chanting, “GIANT STAYS!” Local news outlets interrupted regular programming to celebrate the re-signing, with one anchor calling it “the greatest sports moment in Louisiana since the 2010 Super Bowl.”
Even Pelicans star Zion Williamson tweeted:
“NOLA got the Giant back. Now let’s get a ring .”
What’s Next
With The Giant now locked in for the next half-decade, the Saints front office is expected to be aggressive in free agency and the draft, aiming to surround him with championship-caliber talent. Insiders report that key offensive line upgrades and another wide receiver are top priorities.
But for now, Saints Nation can breathe easy — their franchise cornerstone, their living legend, their 7-foot-9 superhero, is home.
Welcome back, Giant. New Orleans marches on
New Orleans Saints
Rickey Jackson: The Relentless Linebacker Who Transformed The Saints With Grit, Leadership, And Greatness
Rickey Jackson: The Relentless Linebacker Who Transformed The Saints With Grit, Leadership, And Greatness — From Franchise Savior To Hall Of Fame Immortal
Rickey Jackson: The Relentless Linebacker Who Transformed the Saints with Grit, Leadership, and Greatness — From Franchise Savior to Hall of Fame Immortal
Rickey Jackson’s name is etched not just in New Orleans Saints history, but in the legacy of the NFL itself. A force of nature on the gridiron, Jackson redefined what it meant to be a linebacker—fierce, fast, fearless, and fundamentally unstoppable. From his early years with the Saints to his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Jackson’s career is a masterclass in hard work, resilience, and leadership.
A Towering Physical Presence
Standing 6’2” and weighing 243 pounds, Jackson possessed the rare combination of size, speed, and agility that made him a nightmare for quarterbacks and offensive linemen. But it wasn’t just about physicality—it was about a mindset. Jackson approached every snap with unrelenting intensity. His ability to attack both the pass and the run made him one of the most versatile defenders of his generation.
The Foundation of a Franchise
Drafted in 1981, Jackson entered a Saints franchise that had long been defined by mediocrity. But with Jackson’s arrival came a shift in tone, urgency, and performance. He was more than a playmaker—he was the heartbeat of a team desperate for a new identity. Jackson didn’t just play defense—he inspired it. Alongside the famed “Dome Patrol” linebacking corps, he turned the Saints into a defensive juggernaut and playoff contender.
Leadership Beyond the Numbers
While his stats are staggering—6 Pro Bowl selections, 4 First-Team All-Pro honors, and 115 career sacks, the most in franchise history—it was Jackson’s leadership that elevated the Saints. He demanded excellence and held teammates accountable. He led not just with his voice but by example, showing up every game, every down, with the same relentless pursuit of victory.
A Legacy Cemented in Canton
In 2010, Jackson became the first player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame primarily for his contributions as a New Orleans Saint. It was a historic and symbolic moment—not only for Jackson, but for an entire fanbase that had watched him carry the torch for nearly two decades. His gold jacket didn’t just represent personal greatness—it was a badge of honor for the Saints organization.
What Fueled His Greatness?
Passion for the Game: Jackson’s love for football drove him to outwork and outfight every opponent.
Pride and Purpose: Whether facing adversity or chasing a title, Jackson played with unmatched pride and personal accountability.
Team Above All: Despite individual accolades, Jackson’s ultimate goal was always team success.
New Orleans Saints
Kellen Moore faces a daunting crossroads in New Orleans as he rebuilds the Saints’ quarterback future
Kellen Moore faces a daunting crossroads in New Orleans as he rebuilds the Saints’ quarterback future
Kellen Moore’s New Orleans Challenge
In a league driven by talent and strategy, the New Orleans Saints find themselves at a pivotal crossroads, particularly on the offensive front. With franchise quarterback Derek Carr announcing his retirement, the newly appointed head coach Kellen Moore must tackle the formidable task of revitalizing the team’s quarterback lineup. As competition heats up among Tyler Shough, Spencer Rattler, and Jake Haener for the starting role, the stakes for Moore could not be higher—his decisions will shape the franchise’s future.
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**The Quest for Stability**
At the heart of the Saints’ offensive ambitions lies the urgent need for a reliable quarterback. This demand amplifies the scrutiny on Moore, who has successfully mentored talents like Dak Prescott, Jalen Hurts, and Justin Herbert in the past. However, the current quarterback battle lacks the high-profile star players Moore is accustomed to working with. One keen observer remarked, “Kellen Moore is not stepping into the easiest job.” This reality frames the obstacle ahead: transitioning from mere statistical expectations to nurturing a quarterback capable of steering the franchise toward long-term success.
Tyler Shough: The Leading Candidate
Amidst the uncertainty swirling around the quarterback room, Tyler Shough has emerged as the leading contender for the starting position. His development is critical this season, as the Saints aim to cultivate him into a pivotal figure for the franchise. The offensive strategy appears centered on maximizing Shough’s capabilities while shoring up protection from the offensive line. With the addition of first-round draft pick Kelvin Banks Jr. at left tackle, alongside Taliese Fuaga at right tackle and the repositioning of Trevor Penning to guard, the Saints are poised to create a supportive environment conducive to Shough’s growth.
A Season of Opportunity
This season for the Saints transcends the immediate goal of winning—it’s a fundamental opportunity to lay the groundwork for future triumphs. Should Shough rise to the occasion and showcase his potential, it would represent a significant leap forward for both Moore and the organization. While the window remains open for any of the quarterbacks to emerge as the franchise’s standard-bearer, Shough’s path to making a substantial impact from the outset stands out as particularly bright.
Looking Ahead
As the Saints embark on this transformative chapter, the emphasis will undoubtedly be on developing talent and fostering a competitive ecosystem within the quarterback room. The possibility of unearthing a long-term solution at the position holds the power to redefine the future of the team. For Kellen Moore, this season is not just a challenge; it offers an unparalleled opportunity to sculpt the identity of the Saints’ offense for years ahead. Although the road may be fraught with challenges, it also brims with the potential for a new dawn in New Orleans football—a chapter that could usher in a fresh era of hope and excitement.
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