3 Jacksonville Jaguars 2023 opponents that improved immensely in free agency

No. 1 Jacksonville Jaguars 2023 opponent that got better: New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints had a revolving door at quarterback following the retirement of Drew Brees in 2020. However, they found a bit of stability at the position after signing Derek Carr in the free agency. The fact that the Saints didn't have to trade for the former Fresno Bulldog and instead waited for the Las Vegas Raiders to release him made the addition even better.

Even though Carr has lost his last two games against the Jaguars, he immediately gives the Saints' offense a huge boost after having to lean on a combination of Jameis Winston, Taysom Hill, and Andy Dalton last year. Back in Las Vegas, the veteran signal-caller often had to carry the team on his shoulders, something he was not always capable of doing. On the other hand, the Raiders never had a good defense during his nine-year tenure.

Fortunately for Carr, the Saints' defense ranked ninth in points surrendered and fifth in total yards. This is the first time he'll have a defense of that caliber in his career, so it will be interesting to see what he can do without routinely having to play from behind. Having said that, Carr wasn't the only player New Orleans added in free agency. They also bolster their running back room with Jamaal Williams, who led the league in rushing touchdowns with 17 last season.

Also, the Saints brought back tight end Juwan Johnson, whose seven receiving touchdowns led the team last year. General manager Mickey Loomis also reworked Michael Thomas' contract and added Bryan Edwards, who previously caught passes from Carr in Las Vegas.

While the Jaguars look like the better team right now, Carr will try to beat them and put an end to his two-game losing streak.