Between a couple of expected rookie draft picks and an abundance of mid-level starters, the New Orleans Saints’ list of 2023 opponents is looking awful vulnerable at quarterback — especially in the wake of the Aaron Rodgers trade, in which the two-time former MVP was sent from the Green Bay Packers (who the Saints will visit in the fall) to the New York Jets (who they won’t see until 2025, barring a surprise Super Bowl matchup).
There just aren’t many quality quarterbacks lined up for the Saints defense to go knock down. That’s why they made such a strong run at Derek Carr. Getting an edge at the game’s most important position could pay off in a big way once the NFC playoff picture begins to take shape. At the same time, head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael found a way to lose to the Carolina Panthers in Week 18 despite holding Sam Darnold to just 5 completions for 43 passing yards. Hopefully Carr can make up for their deficiencies.
This projection will change once the 2023 draft is behind us, but right now, here’s a quick survey of the starting quarterbacks projected to suit up against New Orleans this season: