NFL Team Needs: Prioritizing Each Squad’s Biggest Weaknesses Ahead of Week 9 | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

It’s been a tough time for the New Orleans Saints, with Sunday’s loss in Los Angeles making it their sixth straight loss. At this point, it’s hard to see why New Orleans wouldn’t step up and start rebuilding for the future, which could make next week’s matchup with Carolina “interesting” as the teams battle for the final spot in the division.

1. center
2. Offensive tackle
3. Defensive tackle
4. Cornerback
5. 2. Security

Add now: Trade with EDGE Chase Young

While the Saints have been pushing for a rebuild over the past few years, it feels like the time has finally come as the team has been unable to capitalize on a hot start to start the season. So the club should start looking ahead to next year and signing Young, who was listed at No. 7 overall in BR’s NFL Trade Block Big Board column this week.

“As New Orleans begins its rebuild in 2025, it may have to do so with budget contracts and rookie deals. The Saints are projected to be $97.6 million over the cap next season,” B/R’s Kristopher Knox wrote.

“Trading pass rusher Chase Young, who has a one-year, $13 million contract, would provide no 2025 cap relief. However, it would provide the Saints with valuable draft capital. Young has 1.5 sacks and 13 quarterback pressures in seven games this season.

2025 free agency: EDGE Joseph Ossai, Cincinnati Bengals

As mentioned above, New Orleans is expected to hit the cap this offseason and will need to rebuild the roster with young, cheap talent.

Especially with Young unlikely to return next year, the defense will need some help on the sidelines with Payton Turner and Tanoh Kpassagnon also poised to hit free agency. Additionally, Cameron Jordan, who turns 36 in July, could receive a cut after June 1 to save $11 million, according to Over The Cap.

Even though Ossai hasn’t done much in his career so far, that could help keep his price tag down since he’ll only be 25 in April. Additionally, the 2021 third-round pick played behind Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson throughout his career and always had plenty of talent. The former Longhorn could thrive with a greater opportunity in The Big Easy.

NFL Draft 2025: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

The Saints could use some help at safety and Tyrann Mathieu could be another player forfeited this offseason. According to the OTC, a cut after June 1 would save the club $6.25 million. So Mickey Loomis will want to take a look at the Georiga product, who is currently ranked as the fourth-best prospect on B/R’s NFL Draft Big Board.

“Starks is considered a first-round pick with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL,” defensive backs scout Cory Giddings wrote in the Bulldog scouting report. “His combination of athleticism, ball skills and physicality make him a versatile safety who can excel in both coverage and run support.”

“While he may need to refine his technique against faster receivers, Stark’s overall skill set and football IQ make him a good defensive playmaker. With the ability to contribute from day one, Starks is poised to become a key player in every game. “NFL secondary who offers the potential to develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber safety.”