FRISCO, Texas — As Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy prepares to face the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, he might recall his time with the Green Bay Packers in 2017.

Back then, McCarthy noticed a standout undrafted rookie quarterback, Taysom Hill, during training camp and wanted to keep him on the practice squad.

Seven years later, Hill has become a key player for the Saints, known for his versatility.

While he has occasionally played quarterback, he more frequently lines up as a tight end, in the backfield, or as a receiver.

Hill has accumulated 2,348 passing yards and 11 touchdowns, alongside 2,194 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns, plus 757 receiving yards on 77 catches.

McCarthy praised Hill’s adaptability, noting that his multifaceted skill set adds significant value.

Hill was a strong quarterback prospect in 2017, and despite being older than most rookies—he turned 27 that August—his maturity and potential stood out.

Green Bay ultimately kept only Aaron Rodgers and Brett Hundley as quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.

The Packers hoped to place Hill on the practice squad, but he was quickly signed by the Saints.

Since then, Hill has made a notable impact in New Orleans. In Week 1 of the current season, he ran five times for 35 yards and caught a pass for 1 yard during a win over the Panthers.

As Hill prepares to face McCarthy and the Cowboys in Dallas’ home opener, McCarthy reflects on Hill’s impressive career trajectory.

“Watching his career unfold has been great,” McCarthy said, acknowledging Hill’s remarkable journey from undrafted rookie to versatile NFL playmaker.