Mattel's Magic 8 Ball has been predicting the future since 1946. We ran a few questions about the New Orleans Saints by one, and the results give us an idea of where the team is headed this season.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, users ask yes-no questions to the ball, give it a shake and then turn it over to reveal the answer. We opted for an online version to ask the following:
Does Alvin Kamara begin the season in New Orleans?
Magic 8 Ball says: Cannot predict now.
A peaceful offseason in New Orleans got a lot more chaotic when running back Alvin Kamara left the final day of mandatory minicamp because of a contract dispute. Even the Magic 8 Ball doesn't know how this situation plays out, which could include a reconciliation on the current terms of his deal, which has no guaranteed money after this season, or an extension or even a trade.
Everything should be on the table for the Saints, who don't have great prospects for 2024 and could increase their likelihood of landing a valuable first-round pick in next year's draft by trading Kamara. An extension might do more harm than good considering the team's cap restraints and its championship window that's all but closed.
However, New Orleans has an aggressive front office that might be the least likely to punt on a season by trading arguably its best offensive weapon. So, we get it, Magic 8 Ball. Good luck figuring out how this soap opera ends.
Will Chase Young play the majority of the season?
Magic 8 Ball says: Most likely.
New Orleans could hardly celebrate Young's signing in free agency before news broke that the former No. 2 overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft needed offseason neck surgery. He wouldn't be the first high-profile signing to never play a snap for the team (remember wide receiver Dez Bryant?), but Young is trending toward being a contributor on the field for the Saints in 2024.
And don't just take the Magic 8 Ball's word for it. Last Thursday, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Young "received a positive report" from his neck specialist and that "he plans to participate in training camp."
In 2023, Young tied a career-high with 7.5 sacks after appearing in 16 games, including six starts. From 2021-22, Young played in 12 of a possible 34 regular-season games. The 2020 Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year has never played a full season in his four years in the NFL.
Will the Saints finish the season with a top-10 draft pick?
Magic 8 Ball says: You may rely on it.
Whether via trade or their own shortcomings, the Saints might end the season with a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft for the first time since 2008. New Orleans finished 2022 with the No. 10 overall pick, but traded that selection before the season to Philadelphia. While this prediction suggests 2024 could be another lost season for the Saints, it could also put them in a position to have one of the best picks in next April's draft.
Is the Saints' 2025 head coach on their current coaching staff?
Magic 8 Ball says: It is decidedly so.
Head coach Dennis Allen is entering the third year of a four-year contract. With stakes low in New Orleans in 2024, he might finish out his deal even if the Saints miss the playoffs for a third year in a row under his watch. Another option is turning to offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. If he impresses in his first year on the job, he could replace Allen as head coach after another disappointing season. Regardless of what transpires this season, the Saints could look very similar in 2025.
