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New Orleans Saints, Taysom Hill
October 3, 2024 By  New Orleans Saints

New Orleans Saints’ $40 Million Tight End Named a Must Trade Player

As it stands, the New Orleans Saints could use the ideal version of Taysom Hill whenever they face opposing teams on the field. But if that’s not possible, the team is urged to trade him before the deadline expires early next month, no matter how impressive Hill can be at times for them.

Taking a look at what he’s done for the franchise, Hill has made a significant mark in Saints history, recently becoming the fifth all-time leading rusher for touchdowns in the franchise. In Week 4, he scored twice against the Atlanta Falcons, bringing his total to 29 rushing touchdowns. This impressive achievement places him behind only Alvin Kamara (59), Mark Ingram (52), Deuce McAllister (49), and Dalton Hilliard (39).

New Orleans Saints, Taysom Hill
Aug 20, 2024; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill (7) runs away from the block by cornerback Alontae Taylor (1) during practice at Yulman Stadium (Tulane). Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Since the Saints’ inception in 1967, few players have reached this milestone, highlighting Hill’s unique role as a versatile athlete who has played nearly every offensive position. Notably, he has accomplished this with just 412 rushing attempts, a stark contrast to the more than 1,100 attempts by the players ahead of him on the list. His ability to consistently find the end zone, particularly in goal-line situations, showcases his speed, strength, and vision.

In addition to his rushing touchdowns, Hill averages an impressive 5.4 yards per carry throughout his career, a testament to his effectiveness even when defenses anticipate his runs. At 34 years old, he continues to perform at a high level, having recently set a personal squat record of 685 pounds.

NFL Analysis Urges New Orleans Saints To Trade Taysom Hill

New Orleans Saints, Taysom Hill
Aug 10, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill (7) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

At this point in time, New Orleans might do a lot better if they didn’t have Hill on the roster. Fansided’s Nick Villano explained why in his NFL analysis.

This one is going to come with some controversy, but the Tayson Hill experiment in New Orleans seems to work as a detriment. The converted quarterback who’s now playing a hybrid position between running back and tight end could have two touchdowns rushing and one receiving one week then get completely held off the stat line the next. The inconsistency seems to be part of the game plan, but why?

This is almost asking the New Orleans Saints to save themselves from themselves. Hill could be an incredible weapon in a lot of offenses. He has been incredible at times in this offense, but he might be the most inconsistent player in the league, and we don’t think it’s his fault. Outside of injuries, he seems to come to work ready to do exactly what New Orleans needs on a weekly basis.

There is one major issue here. The Saints tried their salary cap tomfoolery with Hill’s contract, and now his cap hit is $18 million next season. A trade might not save the Saints any money in 2025, as that’s how they restructured his deal this past offseason. If that’s the case, then a trade isn’t happening. There would be no reason to do it.

Hill’s versatility has made him a dynamic player for the Saints, yet his four-year, $40 million contract raises eyebrows. While he can play multiple positions, his cap hits through 2027 are substantial for a gadget player.

New Orleans Saints, Taysom Hill
Dec 31, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill (7) drops back against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

Despite a solid performance last season, including 401 rushing yards and six touchdowns, these numbers don’t justify his status as one of the league’s highest-paid tight ends. Rather than carry this contract, not to mention his inconsistency at times, the Saints may be better off trading Hill.

New Orleans Saints, Taysom Hill
Nov 5, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill (7) grabs his helmet after an interview after the game against the Chicago Bears at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

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About Angelo Guinhawa

Angelo Guinhawa is a veteran sports writer and editor who has been working in the industry for over 10 years now. He has worked for FOX Sports PH and several other reputable sports publications. His specialty is the NBA and the NFL, though he also covers the MLB, NHL and European top-flight football.

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  1. Avatar of Blimp

    You are so right.

    #57856

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