ESPN Report: Saints Eyeing Aggressive Move for Top WR, Jaylen Waddle Among Targets
With the NFL trade deadline rapidly approaching, the New Orleans Saints appear ready to make a splash. According to multiple sources close to the organization, the Saints are aggressively pursuing a high-impact wide receiver — and one name that’s gaining serious traction in league circles is Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle.
The Saints, currently in the thick of a tightly contested NFC South race, are looking to bolster an inconsistent offense that has struggled to find rhythm despite boasting weapons like Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara. While the defense remains the team’s backbone, head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak are reportedly pushing for a dynamic playmaker who can open up the field and give veteran quarterback Derek Carr another reliable option.
Jaylen Waddle, 25, is seen as an ideal fit. Known for his elite speed, crisp route-running, and ability to stretch defenses vertically, Waddle would immediately upgrade the Saints’ passing game. In Miami, he’s been the perfect complement to Tyreek Hill, racking up over 1,000 yards in each of his first two NFL seasons. However, with Miami facing looming cap decisions and contract extensions on the horizon, there’s growing speculation that Waddle could be made available — for the right price.
Still on his rookie deal through 2025 with a fifth-year option, Waddle wouldn’t come cheap. The Dolphins are reportedly seeking a high draft pick and possibly a young player in return. New Orleans, no stranger to aggressive front office moves under GM Mickey Loomis, may be willing to meet that price if they believe Waddle is the missing piece in a playoff push.
Internally, the Saints have voiced concern over a lack of explosive plays and consistency from their receiving corps beyond Olave. Michael Thomas, once among the league’s most dominant wideouts, has battled injuries and inconsistency in recent years. Rashid Shaheed has flashed potential but remains unproven as a full-time WR2.
A trade for Waddle would signal a clear all-in move from a Saints franchise that still believes it can contend in a weakened NFC. It would also give Carr a duo of Olave and Waddle — two of the league’s best young route-runners — to stretch opposing defenses and open up the short game for Kamara.
Whether the deal materializes or not, the Saints’ interest in upgrading their wide receiver room is very real. If not Waddle, expect New Orleans to remain active in talks for other available receivers ahead of the October 29 trade deadline.
One thing’s clear: the Saints are swinging big.