The New Orleans Saints kicked off the 2024 season with a bang, stunning fans with a powerful 44-19 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 2. With momentum at their back, a league-leading point differential, and aspirations for a return to glory, the Saints’ early success had fans calling for more, hungry for a deep playoff push. But now, just six weeks later, New Orleans’ season is on shaky ground—and it’s not looking like an easy fix.
Since their Week 2 triumph, the Saints have hit an alarming six-game skid. Injuries and lackluster performances have compounded their struggles, and a once-dominant point differential has spiraled into a disheartening -21. While the Saints can point to quarterback Derek Carr’s injury as a factor in the slump, it’s hard to shake the feeling that their early success may have been more illusion than foundation.
So, with the trade deadline in the rearview mirror and fan frustrations at a boiling point, the big question remains: should New Orleans tear it down for a full rebuild or keep pushing to win now? And what role might key players like cornerback Marshon Lattimore, wide receiver Darious Slayton, and star running back Alvin Kamara play in shaping the team’s future?
The Chiefs’ Interest in Marshon Lattimore
The Saints may have hesitated to make drastic moves at the trade deadline, but that didn’t stop teams from circling New Orleans’ most valuable assets. Among the biggest names drawing interest was four-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore, a cornerstone of the Saints’ secondary. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Kansas City Chiefs are particularly eager to bolster their defense with a shutdown corner, especially after the departure of L’Jarius Sneed left their pass defense struggling.
“Teams are calling about Lattimore,” Schefter reported, “and the Chiefs are among the most interested, despite recent additions like DeAndre Hopkins and Joshua Uche.”
The Chiefs, who have slipped to 17th in passing defense this season, reportedly see Lattimore as the missing piece in their Super Bowl puzzle. Though Lattimore’s current health status complicates negotiations, a high draft pick offer from Kansas City could force the Saints to consider whether it’s time to cash in on their elite corner’s value.
A Possible Offensive Boost with Darious Slayton?
While fans are torn over whether to keep or trade Lattimore, the Saints could also explore bolstering their receiving corps to support a struggling offense. With Rashid Shaheed sidelined for the season and Chris Olave carrying a heavy load, New Orleans could make a play for New York Giants’ Darious Slayton. The 27-year-old receiver, who burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie with 740 yards and eight touchdowns, has continued to put up solid numbers in 2024 despite the Giants’ quarterback woes.
Slayton’s expiring contract and consistent production could make him a low-risk, high-reward pickup for New Orleans. And with a favorable compensatory pick formula, the Saints could likely recoup any draft capital spent on Slayton should he walk after the season. For a team in desperate need of offensive firepower, adding a seasoned receiver might provide a late-season spark.
Alvin Kamara: A Franchise Fixture or Trade Chip?
The most polarizing name in the Saints’ trade rumors, though, might be Alvin Kamara. The multi-dimensional back has been the team’s most reliable offensive weapon in the post-Drew Brees era, and even at 29, he’s shown no signs of slowing down. Kamara’s value on the market is clear, given his versatility and durability, but some fans and analysts question whether the Saints should consider parting ways with him now to kickstart a rebuild.
Trading Kamara could potentially bring in a valuable draft pick, but for a team likely drafting a new quarterback in the near future, losing Kamara could strip the offense of a critical safety net. If no first-round offers emerge, it may make more sense for New Orleans to keep Kamara around to support a young QB, giving the Saints’ next signal-caller a stable, playmaking partner in the backfield.
What’s Next for the Saints?
Heading into a crucial Week 9 matchup against the struggling Carolina Panthers, the Saints’ next steps remain uncertain. Falling to 2-7 could pressure the front office to rethink its “win-now” mentality and focus on asset-building for a future core. But a win could just as easily encourage New Orleans to double down, putting faith in their veterans to make a playoff push in a weak NFC South.
For a franchise known for creative—but often cap-straining—moves, New Orleans has a decision to make: go all-in now or start planning for a rebuild. If Kansas City steps up with an aggressive offer for Lattimore, it could signal the beginning of a new era. But if the Saints decide to keep their key pieces and add a weapon like Slayton, it may be a sign they believe they still have some magic left in the Superdome.
