The NFL landscape was just beginning to settle in the wake of the 2020 NFL Draft when the New Orleans Saints signed backup quarterback Taysom Hill to a two-year, $21 million contract extension. That move doesn’t just grant Hill financial stability — it puts him in the driver’s seat to start at quarterback once Drew Brees has moved on.
That might happen as soon as 2021. While Brees also signed a two-year deal, it’s structured so that the Saints will be accountable for a little over $22 million against the salary cap should he retire after the 2020 season. If he plays, that number climbs up to north of $30 million. Brees has already signed on with NBC Sports in a broadcasting role, so it appears increasingly likely that 2020 will be his last ride.
Which means Hill would be the favorite to start at quarterback, with a salary at around $16 million. That’s comparable to what Andy Dalton and Jacoby Brissett have earned in recent years. It’s tough to complain about that kind of payout for a quarterback who, at worst, might be a one-year band-aid until the Saints can find their next passer. At best, it might end up looking like a bargain if Hill thrives as the full-time starter.
Still, don’t be surprised if the Saints take a proactive approach in adding more quarterbacks next offseason. Hill and rookie seventh-round pick Tommy Stevens are the only passers under contract (assuming Brees retires) past the 2020 season, with Jameis Winston expected to sign just a one-year deal. Things are shaking up in New Orleans and fans should be preparing for it.
