The Denver Broncos may find a spark for their offense in 2025 with the potential reunion of head coach Sean Payton and his former New Orleans Saints star, Taysom Hill. ESPN’s Benjamin Solak has suggested that Hill, known for his versatility as a “Swiss Army Knife” player, could be on the move this offseason, opening the door for a reunion with Payton in Denver.
Hill, a multi-faceted offensive weapon, is listed as a tight end but has excelled in various roles throughout his career, including quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and special teams contributor. He thrived under Payton’s innovative coaching during their five seasons together in New Orleans. However, with the Saints’ financial struggles and Hill’s substantial 2025 salary cap hit of $18 million, the team may be forced to part ways with the veteran playmaker.
Solak predicts that the Saints will explore trading Hill to free up cap space, with Denver being a likely destination due to the connection with Payton. If no trade materializes, the Saints could designate Hill as a post-June 1 release, saving $10 million against the cap in 2025. This scenario would allow the Broncos to pursue Hill as a free agent, potentially signing him to a low-risk, incentive-laden contract, such as a one-year, $1.5 million deal that could increase in value based on performance.
The Saints face a daunting salary cap deficit projected at nearly $80 million for 2025, making it necessary for them to cut veteran contracts like Hill’s. As The Sporting News’ Sean Labar pointed out, the team must clear significant space to remain financially viable, which places Hill’s future with the organization in doubt.
Hill’s rise to NFL prominence as a do-it-all player is largely credited to Payton’s vision and creativity. After going undrafted in 2017 due to a history of injuries during his collegiate career at BYU, Hill was signed by the Saints and initially made an impact on special teams. Payton soon began utilizing Hill’s unique skill set in the offense, creating a role that showcased his ability to contribute in almost every phase of the game.
Over 105 career games, Hill has amassed 3,809 all-purpose yards and scored 55 touchdowns, including 33 rushing, 11 receiving, and 11 passing scores. Despite being 35 years old and coming off a season-ending ACL injury in 2024, Hill demonstrated his value with 465 total yards and six touchdowns in just eight games last season.
While age and injury history are concerns, Hill’s relatively low usage rate throughout his career suggests he may still have gas left in the tank. His return to a Payton-led offense in Denver could reignite his career and provide the Broncos with a dynamic weapon for their 2025 campaign.
