Two Players The Saints Should Avoid

1. Avoid Drafting Jalen Milroe

The New Orleans Saints, aiming to solidify their future at quarterback, but they should carefully consider avoiding Alabama’s Jalen Milroe in the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite his athleticism and dual-threat capabilities, Milroe’s inconsistent performances in 2024 raise questions about his readiness for the professional level, particularly for a team looking to maximize its offensive potential.

Inconsistent Passing Under Pressure

Milroe has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled in key games against formidable opponents in 2024. For instance:

• Tennessee: He threw for 239 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, with one coming in the end zone during a critical moment. His lack of poise under a hostile Neyland Stadium atmosphere was evident.
• Oklahoma: Facing an unranked opponent, Milroe managed only 164 yards with three interceptions in a 24-3 loss, leaving Alabama’s playoff hopes in jeopardy. His inability to adapt to defensive schemes contributed significantly to the team’s defeat.
• Vanderbilt: Milroe’s performance against Vanderbilt exemplifies his struggles in critical games. Alabama, ranked No. 1 at the time, suffered a shocking 40-35 loss to an unranked Commodores team. Milroe threw for 312 yards but had only one touchdown against an interception that was returned for a Vanderbilt score. His inability to finish drives and inconsistent reads allowed Vanderbilt to dominate time of possession and secure an upset victory  

Broader Trends of Underperformance

Milroe also faltered in other key matchups. Against Oklahoma and Ole Miss, he threw multiple interceptions and failed to generate sustained offensive momentum, costing Alabama crucial opportunities. His performances often showcased his athleticism but exposed his limitations as a passer. Slow decision-making, a tendency to rely on his legs under pressure, and a lack of poise in the pocket have been recurring issues. 

The Saints, rebuilding around a struggling offense, need a quarterback who can immediately elevate the team’s play with decision-making, accuracy, and leadership. While Milroe’s dual-threat ability is enticing, his inconsistency under pressure could exacerbate the Saints’ existing challenges rather than solve them. With talented quarterbacks in the 2025 draft, New Orleans should focus on more polished options to lead their franchise.

Conclusion

The masses should slow down on the Lamar Jackson comparisons while they are ahead as Milroe and Jackson are in two totally different universes. While Milroe’s athletic upside might intrigue some teams, the Saints would be wise to seek a more polished and consistent quarterback to lead their franchise. Investing in a quarterback with proven accuracy and decision-making will be crucial to maintaining competitiveness in the NFC South. Milroe’s 2024 performances suggest he may not yet be that player. Though Milroe remains a dynamic player with potential, his 2024 campaign has highlighted too many red flags for the Saints to gamble on him as a cornerstone piece. I believe he needs another year at Alabama to develop. 

2.  Avoid Signing Daniel Jones

As the New Orleans Saints evaluate their options for the quarterback position in the 2025 offseason, Daniel Jones may be an appealing free agent on the surface, but he represents a risky investment for a franchise seeking stability. After being released by the New York Giants following a series of lackluster seasons and a costly contract, Jones’ limitations have become glaring.

Inconsistent Play and Injury Concerns

Jones has consistently struggled with turnovers and decision-making under pressure, issues that plagued the Giants throughout his tenure. Despite brief flashes of competence, his inability to elevate his team in critical moments raises questions about his value as a long-term solution. 

Mismatch for the Saints’ Needs

The Saints require a quarterback who can make quick decisions, deliver accurate throws, and provide leadership for an offense that already struggles with consistency. Jones’ track record of inconsistent performances and reliance on a strong supporting cast may not align with New Orleans’ current roster construction.

Salary Cap Implications

Signing Jones could also strain the Saints’ salary cap flexibility. With Jones likely commanding a significant contract despite his struggles, committing resources to an unproven solution could hinder the team’s ability to address other pressing needs.

Conclusion

The Saints should prioritize developing Spencer Rattler, drafting a quarterback early in 2025, or acquiring a quarterback with a more reliable skill set and upside. While Jones may land elsewhere as a reclamation project, he is not the right fit for New Orleans’ ambitions moving forward.