The New Orleans Saints’ offseason is poised for significant change, marked by a new head coach and a pressing need to address their salary cap situation. One of the most intriguing possibilities is the potential departure of quarterback Derek Carr. Despite being under contract for two more seasons, Carr’s recent declaration that he will not take a pay cut has fueled speculation about his future with the team.
The Tennessee Titans emerge as a logical destination for Carr, primarily due to the familiarity between him and Titans head coach Brian Callahan. Callahan served as Carr’s quarterbacks coach in 2018, establishing a connection that could prove invaluable for a Titans team in a pivotal phase. With Callahan’s job security potentially on the line, having a quarterback he trusts could be crucial.
Furthermore, the Titans’ front office has undergone significant changes, with the additions of General Manager Mike Borgonzi and assistant General Manager Dave Ziegler. Ziegler’s past involvement in Carr’s release from the Raiders, coupled with his recent stint in the Saints’ front office, adds another layer of intrigue to this scenario.
The Titans, holding the number one overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, have hinted at potentially passing on a quarterback in favor of a “generational player.” This suggests they may be seeking a bridge quarterback to lead the team while developing a future starter. Derek Carr, despite his limitations, could fill this role effectively. His experience and familiarity with Callahan’s system could provide the Titans with stability and allow them to take a more measured approach to their quarterback development.
While Carr may not be the long-term solution, his presence could provide the Titans with a reliable option as they navigate their rebuilding process. The combination of Callahan’s familiarity, Ziegler’s insight, and the Titans’ potential draft strategy makes a trade for Derek Carr a plausible scenario.
