The New Orleans Saints are hopeful that Jameis Winston can return next season and stay healthy. However, Winston's injury history is concerning. New Orleans may be better suited to move in a different direction at the quarterback position. There were whispers of a Baker Mayfield trade before he ultimately was dealt to the Panthers. But could the Saints acquire Jimmy Garoppolo?

On the surface, Jimmy G may not seem like the answer for the Saints. New Orleans fans may even roll their eyes at the idea of Garoppolo starting for them. But let's take a look at 3 reasons the Saints should trade for Jimmy Garoppolo.

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3 reasons Saints must acquire Jimmy Garoppolo after Panthers, Baker Mayfield trade

Jameis Winston injury history

We touched on Winston's injury history above. The QB is talented when on the field, but trusting that he will be on the field all season long is almost impossible. And if the Saints truly have desires of competing this season, they need a steady QB running the show.

In the NFL, anybody can get injured at any moment. But Garoppolo has remained fairly healthy throughout his career. But even he recently underwent surgery.

Andy Dalton and Taysom Hill could be options for New Orleans. But Garoppolo brings a better pedigree despite his criticism. And  as long as the surgery doesn't hold him back, Garoppolo should be in line for a full season.

Veteran leadership

Jimmy Garoppolo may not seem like the leader a team would want. But let's take a look at his career resume.

Jimmy G was Tom Brady's backup in New England with the Patriots. He likely learned a lot from the best QB to ever player the game. The Patriots were Brady's team, and the Saints could become Garoppolo's team if he is traded to New Orleans. Garoppolo later became the starter for the San Francisco 49ers. In 2021, he led them to the playoffs. He threw 20 touchdowns and tallied over 3,800 passing yards.

No, he did not produce superstar numbers by any means. But he led the team on offense and did enough to help them win games. Believe it or not, Garoppolo's veteran leadership could be vital to the Saints success.

Good fit in New Orleans

With an emerging receiving core and star running back Alvin Kamara in the backfield, the pressure would be somewhat alleviated for Garoppolo. He is the kind of quarterback that exceeds with strong pieces around him. He isn't going to win you games all on his own. But when defenses begin to set their sights on stopping Alvin Kamara, Garoppolo is the kind of QB who can make some passes.

The fit would work in New Orleans. Garoppolo does just enough at the QB position to produce decent value. If the Saints continue to improve on defense and continue adding talented players on offense, it wouldn't be surprising to see Garoppolo perform well for the Saints.

Final thoughts 

In the end, the future is still unclear for Jimmy Garoppolo. There have been rumors stating that he could stay in San Francisco. However, others are adamant that he will be dealt prior to the 2022 season.

The 49ers would be better suited to trade him. Trey Lance is young and would develop faster in a starting role. San Francisco does not need Jimmy G on the roster anymore. And they should net a decent return in a trade.

It will be interesting to see if the Saints end up acquiring Jimmy Garoppolo.