Are the Saints Quietly Preparing to Move On from Nick Saldiveri? Injury Blow Sparks Trade Speculation

New Orleans may be facing more than just an injury crisis—Nick Saldiveri, their promising fourth-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, is officially out for the entire 2025 season with a serious knee injury. Head coach Kellen Moore confirmed the news on August 2, placing Saldiveri on season-ending injured reserve and re-signing veteran guard Shane Lemieux to fill the gap.

But behind the scenes, fans and insiders are starting to wonder: Could this be the beginning of the end for Saldiveri in New Orleans? Could a trade be brewing?

Though under contract through 2026 on a $4.7 million rookie deal, the second-year lineman has faced recurring knee issues. With durability now a major concern, whispers of a potential roster shake-up are getting louder.

Strategic Angle:

• If the Saints want to free up cap space or find a long-term replacement, Saldiveri might become a trade chip—especially for teams desperate for O-line depth.

• Teams like the Panthers, Falcons, or any injury-plagued contender could come calling, especially with training camp injuries already shaking up depth charts.

No trade talks have been confirmed, but Saldiveri’s season-ending absence could push the Saints front office to start evaluating options—whether that means internal reshuffling or testing the market.