New Orleans Saints: Who will replace Teddy Bridgewater?

Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images
Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images /
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When free agency starts, the New Orleans Saints are likely going to lose Teddy Bridgewater. But who will they decide to replace him with?

With free agency almost upon us, there are a lot of players looking for new homes. For quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, it’s a chance to break out and also get a fresh start. Originally a member of the Vikings before a devasting injury, Bridgewater eventually joined the New Orleans Saints after a stint with the Jets.

At first, it seemed like an odd move but the tables turned for Bridgewater. When Drew Brees missed time in 2019, Bridgewater took the snaps under center. He played so well that other teams took notice. At 28 years old and with his contract up, teams are going to come knocking on his door to sign him.

However, Bridgewater’s imminent departure leaves a hole for the Saints to fill. They need a backup quarterback and, though Taysom Hill will surely still be on the roster, he’s more of a utility player than a true backup. So who could fill Bridgewater’s shoes in New Orleans?

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First, there’s always the chance that the Saints look to the NFL Draft. While Breeds could play until he’s 45 years old, that seems highly unlikely. As such, New Orleans could choose to go another route.

Bridgewater joined the Saints via trade and, obviously, that worked out well. So scouring the trade market or simply working in free agency might be the team’s forte. They won’t be able to land the likes of Jameis Winston, Philip Rivers or Marcus Mariota due to the price. Moreover, they likely won’t want an aging veteran like Rivers or Josh McCown.

Beyond those players, there aren’t many notable names left on the 2020 free-agent market. Of those available, however, guys such as Blake Bortles, A.J. McCarron and Trevor Siemian stand out. All have experience starting in the NFL, to varying degrees, but all are surely hungry for another chance to prove themselves. And working in the Saints offense behind Brees is a great way to grow as well.

Of those three options, no one truly separates themselves though. They’ve all been mediocre at best. So while the Saints will almost surely sign someone else eventually, Taysom Hill may still be their best option for now.

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Hopefully there is no repeat of the 2019 season and the Saints backup quarterback, be it Hill or another addition this offseason, doesn’t have to see the field in relief of Brees. But it’s never unwise to be prepared so keep an eye on what New Orleans does as they’re almost sure to see Bridgewater walk in free agency.