Saints Will Trade For Browns QB

Jan 5, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Joe Flacco (15) walks off the field after the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images

As the 2025 NFL offseason progresses, teams are making critical decisions to address various needs, especially at the quarterback position. While many organizations have sought out solutions through free agency and the draft, the New Orleans Saints find themselves in a more ambiguous situation. They did select Tyler Shough in the draft, but naming him the sole answer to their quarterback conundrum is a leap that feels premature.

The uncertainty surrounding Derek Carr’s future looms large, particularly with reports of a lingering shoulder injury and his desire for a fresh start. New head coach Kellen Moore is stepping into a pivotal role where stability at quarterback is essential. Without a clear path, Moore needs to strategize effectively to avoid the position becoming a potential liability.

One avenue he might explore is striking a deal with the Cleveland Browns, who currently have an unexpectedly deep quarterback roster. With names like Kenny Pickett, Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and Joe Flacco on their depth chart, the Browns are in a unique situation where one of these quarterbacks could soon find themselves on the trading block.

Among them, Joe Flacco stands out as the veteran presence, boasting 17 years of NFL experience. His age and the Browns’ trajectory as a rebuilding team make him a candidate for trade rather than retention. While Flacco may not be the long-term answer, he could serve as a mature bridge quarterback for the Saints, allowing them to navigate the immediate future efficiently.

Last season, Flacco demonstrated his potential during his sporadic starts, throwing for 1,761 yards and 12 touchdowns. His expertise and composure could be just what the Saints need to foster an environment conducive to success while they set their sights on the 2026 NFL Draft for a franchise cornerstone. Acquiring Flacco could elevate the quarterback room in New Orleans and provide the much-needed experience to guide the team through this transitional phase.

As Moore embarks on his coaching journey with the Saints, ensuring a reliable quarterback presence will be crucial. The decision to potentially trade for Flacco could be the move that strengthens their offensive lineup and provides the support needed to build a competitive squad, while keeping an eye on the future.