As the New Orleans Saints head into the final stretch of their season, there’s more on the line than just wins and losses. For several key players, these next five games could mark the end of their time in black and gold.
Whether it’s due to expiring contracts, age, injuries, or looming salary cap decisions, the roster could look very different next fall. So while the Saints fight to finish strong, there’s a parallel storyline unfolding - one that’s just as compelling: the possible farewell tour for some familiar faces.
Let’s break down five Saints veterans whose futures in New Orleans are very much in question - and why these final weeks matter.
Taysom Hill: The Swiss Army Knife Nearing the End?
Taysom Hill has been one of the most unique players in recent NFL memory - a do-it-all weapon who’s lined up everywhere from quarterback to tight end to special teams. But now, he’s playing out the final year of his contract, and the reality is starting to set in. If this is it, the Saints will be left with over $13.7 million in dead money thanks to previous restructures - a hefty price for a player who may no longer be the explosive threat he once was.
Hill's return from a major knee injury last year was nothing short of impressive, but it's clear the athleticism that made him such a mismatch nightmare has taken a hit. At 35, the physical toll is catching up, and while his versatility still holds value, the Saints - and Hill himself - may be staring down the end of the road. If this is his final run, he’s earned a proper sendoff for the energy and unpredictability he brought to the post-Brees era.
Alontae Taylor: A Young Starter With an Uncertain Future
Among the pending free agents, Alontae Taylor stands out - not just because of his age, but because of his role. He’s the only true starter on this list who could walk without leaving any dead money behind. That gives the Saints flexibility, but it also signals that the team may be ready to move on.
Taylor hasn’t quite found his footing in Brandon Staley’s defensive scheme. The flashes are there, but the consistency hasn’t followed.
That led to trade rumors at the deadline, and while no deal materialized, the message was clear: the front office is open to change. These final games won’t be the sole factor in determining his future, but it does feel like the decision may already be trending in one direction.
Demario Davis: The Heart of the Defense, But for How Much Longer?
Demario Davis is the elder statesman of this defense - not just in age, but in presence. At 36, he’s the oldest linebacker in the league, yet he continues to play at a high level.
His leadership is irreplaceable, and his production still holds up. But even Davis isn’t immune to time.
There have been moments this season where the wear and tear has shown, and while a reduced role could make sense moving forward, the financials complicate things. The Saints are looking at $14.3 million in dead money if Davis walks away.
A contract extension could ease that burden and keep him in the building as a mentor and rotational piece. It’s not clear which way this will go, but don’t assume Davis is ready to call it quits just yet - he’s earned the right to take his time with that decision.
Cesar Ruiz: A First-Rounder Running Out of Chances
Cesar Ruiz is in a different category - not a veteran leader or a rising star, but a former first-round pick who hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. The Saints could save $6.8 million in cap space with a post-June 1 release, and that’s a number that’s hard to ignore.
Even more appealing? Revisiting trade talks with teams that showed interest at the deadline.
Ruiz has been a constant on an interior offensive line that’s struggled all season. Whether it’s been instability at center or rotating left guards, Ruiz hasn’t been able to elevate the group or anchor the line.
The Saints need better scheme fits up front, and moving on from Ruiz - ideally in a trade - would allow them to recoup some value and reset at a critical position. It’s a tough end for a player once seen as a long-term solution, but the tape doesn’t lie.
Cameron Jordan: Still Chasing Quarterbacks, Not Retirement
Cameron Jordan just tied Rickey Jackson for 17th on the all-time sack list - and he’s not done yet. Despite being in his mid-30s, Jordan is still grinding, still producing, and still bringing leadership to a young defensive front. And while retirement has been floated in the past, it doesn’t feel imminent anymore.
Financially, the Saints would take an $18.7 million dead cap hit if he walks away, so there’s no rush to push him out. With Chase Young emerging as a legitimate threat off the edge, Jordan doesn’t have to carry the entire pass rush load - and that might just extend his career a little longer. Media gigs will be waiting for him when he’s ready, but for now, Jordan still looks like a guy who has more football left in the tank.
Final Thoughts
The Saints are staring down a pivotal offseason, and these next five games will be about more than just playoff positioning. They’re a chance to evaluate, to reflect, and maybe to say goodbye to some players who’ve defined this team in recent years. Whether it’s Hill’s versatility, Davis’ leadership, or Jordan’s relentless motor, these are the guys who’ve kept the Saints competitive through transition and turmoil.
So watch closely. Because for a few of these veterans, this might be the last ride in the Superdome.