The New York Giants significantly upgraded their quarterback room this offseason by signing veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, while also drafting Jaxson Dart in the first round. While the Giants now have depth and experience at the position, one team in particular—the New Orleans Saints—might soon express interest in a familiar face.
With longtime starter Derek Carr gone, the Saints currently lack a clear answer at quarterback. Though there are a few in-house options, Jameis Winston stands out as a viable candidate to start for the remainder of the season.
Jameis Winston’s Role with the Giants
Winston joined New York on a two-year, $8 million contract, including $5.2 million guaranteed, just days before the Giants signed Russell Wilson. Soon after, the team drafted Jaxson Dart, signaling their long-term plans at quarterback.
While Winston was never expected to be the starter, it’s now clear he sits third on the depth chart. With Wilson as the starter and Dart being groomed as the future, Winston’s opportunities to play in New York are extremely limited. A trade to a team in need of a quarterback would benefit all parties.
Winston is known as a high-energy, positive presence in the locker room and a player who could mentor a younger QB. A move to the Saints would not only give him a better opportunity to play, but could also provide the Giants with draft capital or free up salary cap space.
Saints’ Quarterback Situation
The Saints are entering a transitional season in 2025–26 under new head coach Kellen Moore and face tight salary cap constraints due to previous financial mismanagement. New Orleans may be looking at a rebuild or even competing for a top pick in the 2026 draft.
Current options in the roster include:
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Tyler Shough: A second-round pick with size and arm strength, Shough is the current frontrunner. However, at 25 years old and with a history of injuries—including two broken collarbones and a broken fibula—his durability is a concern.
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Spencer Rattler: Once considered a top prospect, Rattler fell to the fifth round. He showed flashes of potential when stepping in last season but may not yet be ready for a full-time starting role.
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Kirk Cousins Trade: While a proven veteran, Cousins would come with a costly contract, which is likely unaffordable for the Saints given their cap situation, making this option unlikely.
Why Winston Makes Sense
A trade for Winston is plausible given the Giants’ quarterback logjam. He also has four seasons of experience with the Saints (2020–2023), giving him familiarity with the organization, its expectations, and some current roster players.
Winston may not be a long-term solution, but he could serve as a bridge quarterback, stabilizing the position while the Saints develop younger talent or await next year’s draft. Affordable, experienced, and a proven locker room leader, Winston could be the right fit for New Orleans at this time.
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