Taysom Hill’s run in New Orleans has reached its end.
The longtime Saints standout said in a social media message Tuesday that a return to the only NFL team he has played for “is not in the cards,” ending any lingering uncertainty about his future with the franchise. Hill, who became an unrestricted free agent in March, said he wanted to speak up as training camps opened around the league and New Orleans held its first practice Wednesday.
“I’m still working through what comes next, but I couldn’t move forward without taking the time to say thank you,” Hill wrote. “New Orleans, you will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we will always be cheering you on.”
He expanded on that thought in the same message, explaining why he chose to address the situation now.
“I’ve taken time this offseason to think carefully about what comes next for my family and me. I still don’t have a clear answer about what the future holds, but I know that returning to New Orleans is not in the cards,” Hill wrote.
“As training camp begins, I didn’t want my silence to be misinterpreted, and as hard as it is to put it into words, I wanted to express my gratitude.”
The Saints responded with a tribute video narrated by former teammate Drew Brees, highlighting Hill’s impact across nine seasons in New Orleans.
Hill’s value to the Saints went well beyond one position. He lined up at quarterback, running back and tight end, while also contributing on special teams and becoming one of the most versatile players in the league during his time there.
In nine seasons with New Orleans, Hill rushed for 2,551 yards and 34 touchdowns. He also caught 110 passes for 1,034 yards and 11 more scores. As a passer, the former undrafted BYU quarterback completed 63.3% of his throws for 2,426 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Hill also made sure his farewell message centered on the city and the people around the organization.
“To the city of New Orleans: thank you. I had always heard, ‘If you love New Orleans, New Orleans will love you back.’ That could not have been more true,” he wrote.
“You exceeded every expectation I had of what it would be like to live and play in a city. The passion, loyalty, and support you showed my family and me over these nine seasons were truly one of a kind. We will always be grateful for the way you embraced us both on and off the field!”
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