It’s time for the New Orleans Saints to face reality: the Derek Carr experiment isn’t working. After just one season in the Big Easy, it’s clear that Carr isn’t the long-term answer, and with a new head coach in Kellen Moore, the Saints need to hit the reset button.
Carr’s 2024 season was underwhelming, to say the least. He went 5-5 as a starter, threw for 15 touchdowns and 5 interceptions, and then saw his season end prematurely due to injury. While those numbers don’t scream disaster, they also don’t justify his massive contract. The Saints, already $54 million over the salary cap, need to start making tough financial decisions—and moving on from Carr should be at the top of the list.
Why Trading Carr Makes Sense
The Saints are in no man’s land—not quite good enough to contend, but not bad enough to land a top draft pick. Sticking with Carr delays the inevitable: a full rebuild. Trading him now would free up cap space, give Moore a fresh start at quarterback, and allow the Saints to build for the future rather than treading water.
There’s also the reality that Carr turns 35 this season and is coming off an injury. If New Orleans waits too long, his trade value could plummet. Given the lack of elite quarterbacks in this year’s draft, a few teams might be desperate enough to take a chance on Carr as a bridge option.
Who Could Take Carr?
- New York Giants – New York’s QB situation is a disaster, and Carr would be an upgrade.
- New York Jets – If Aaron Rodgers really does walk, Carr could be a logical short-term solution.
- Tennessee Titans – If they don’t find a young QB they love, Carr gives them a proven starter in the short term.
Final Thoughts
The Saints must accept what’s painfully obvious—Derek Carr isn’t going to lead them to a Super Bowl. With a roster in flux and a cap situation in shambles, trading Carr is the first step toward a necessary rebuild. The longer they wait, the worse the situation will get. It’s time for New Orleans to move on.
