The NFL trade deadline is always one of the most exciting times of the year for many teams. As for the New Orleans Saints, they have been rather quiet at the deadline over the past handful of years. 

As they limp to it this year, will their plans be a bit more aggressive one way or another? 

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Saints' trade deadline plans

This year's NFL trade deadline is set for Tuesday, November 5th, at 4 p.m. ET.

According to the coaching staff and front office, the Saints do not plan to sell. They are focused on getting back on track. At their best, New Orleans may sit at 3-6 at the deadline. That is not a spot to buy, either. 

Dennis Allen has discussed the team's deadline plans as of now on multiple occasions over the past week. 

"I certainly don’t think we’re in the sell mode, you know. We’re not looking to get rid of players,"

"We don't have any intention to (sell). We have intention to play better football."

— Dennis Allen

The Saints general manager, Mickey Loomis, has also chimed in. His comments to different sections of the media over the past month have gotten plenty of attentions from the fans. 

Loomis wants everyone to look at particular hurdles that Allen has dealt with during his tenure. Many of those obstacles have been created due to the salary cap situation, as well as decision-making inside games from Allen. Loomis did not admit anything of that sort, though. No one would expect any front office member to do that. 

Loomis discusses trade deadline

"I'm not really one that thinks trading away half your roster makes a lot of sense at this point generally for what I think are undervalued offers."

"I mean, we’re gonna do what we think is best for our team for right now and going forward, and yea, and so look, I would never say never about trading somebody, but I think generally at this time of the year the offers don’t necessarily match the talent that you’re giving up.”

— Mickey Loomis via WWL Radio

Even if the Saints wanted to add a legitimate piece before the clock strikes four eastern on deadline day, it would not be simple. They now have less than $2 million in cap space currently after the Alvin Kamara extension.

It could be smarter for the Saints to ship out some veteran players at the deadline, even if they do win this weekend to get to 3-6. Plans are always fluid in the NFL.

Chase Young is an expiring contract, who has been a bit disappointing in 2024. Willie Gay Jr. is another short-term contract that the Saints could look to move to an aggressive contender by next week. A couple of other options, like DT Khalen Saunders or CB Marshon Lattimore, seem like less likely trade-away candidates. 

All in all, don't be shocked if it is another calm deadline for New Orleans in less than a week. Allen and Loomis have doubled down on that notion.

“He needs a little more time in the oven” – Saints coach reveals plan going forward for QB Spencer Rattler

Excited for his future still.