The New Orleans Saints have their starter for the foreseeable future in Derek Carr as well as a viable backup in Jameis Winston. However, the latter is only on a one-year deal, meaning the need for a backup will likely arise soon.

New Orleans is doing their due diligence in that department according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. They have set up a private workout with Purdue quarterback Aidan O'Connell. 

Purdue QB Aidan O’Connell has a private workout today with the #Cowboys, per source.

O’Connell also has private visits and workouts set up with the #Jets, #Raiders, #Saints, #Bengals, #Colts and #Bears, and has Zoomed with 10 other teams. Busy month for the Shrine Bowl standout.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 28, 2023

O'Connell came to Purdue two as a walk-on in 2017. After pretty much redshirting for two seasons, O'Connell was the backup for the two years afterward, starting just three games in each. 

The 2021 season is when O'Connell took over starting duties, and he played pretty well. He threw for 3,712 yards with 27 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while earning a second-team All-Big Ten nod. Last season, he was a second-team conference performer again with 3,490 yards and 22 touchdowns with 13 interceptions.

At the Senior Bowl, O'Connell shined playing alongside some of the top quarterbacks coming out of college according to Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network.

Aidan O’Connell was hot out of the gate and was on the money throwing to targets he’s never played with in the past. He led receivers with passes, hitting them in stride or perfectly placing the ball. Even when his throws were a bit off, O’Connell gave his receivers a chance to come away with the reception.

O'Connell will be more of a developmental quarterback prospect instead of a high draft pick. However, the history of the NFL has shown that these types of prospects can turn into productive players on the pro level.