The New Orleans Saints were hoping that wide receiver Michael Thomas would be able to finally join them sooner than later. But with Thomas apparently dealing with a new ankle issue, the Saints felt they have to make a move before the trade deadline to get their passing attack a much-needed boost, and among the players they targeted was New York Giants wideout Darius Slayton.

Via Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network (h/t NFL writer Kevin Patra):

Rapoport noted that the Saints called around to try to acquire receiver help — Giants wideout Darius Slayton one potential target — at Tuesday's trade deadline, but none came to fruition.

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Would Slayton have made a big difference for the Saints if the team's plan to get him out of the Giants' clasp was successful? Perhaps what's more certain is that the passing game of the Saints would have been more robust. New Orleans has an anemic passing attack. So much of the offense relies on Alvin Kamara's ability to run and catch. Adding anyone to that offense would have moved the needle.

The NFL trade deadline is now in everyone's rearview mirror, with Slayton still in New York and the Saints with a 5-2 record — good for second in the NFC South. Hopefully for the team, it'll still be able to get back Thomas this season and be the game-changing downfield weapon the Saints are missing.