New Orleans Saints Rumored to Part Ways with Derek Carr, Eyeing Superstar Quarterback for 2025 Season

The New Orleans Saints could be on the verge of making a franchise-altering decision regarding their quarterback situation.

According to recent NFL rumors, the organization is strongly considering releasing veteran quarterback Derek Carr and pursuing a high-profile replacement ahead of the 2025 season.

This potential move signals a shift in strategy as the Saints aim to regain their status as Super Bowl contenders.

Derek Carr’s Stint with the Saints: A Disappointing Experiment?

When the Saints signed Derek Carr to a lucrative four-year, $150 million contract in 2023, expectations were sky-high.

The former Las Vegas Raiders signal-caller was brought in to provide stability and veteran leadership to a team searching for a franchise quarterback in the post-Drew Brees era.

However, despite flashes of brilliance, Carr’s tenure in New Orleans has been met with mixed results.

Carr’s 2023 and 2024 seasons were marred by inconsistency, injuries, and an underperforming offense.

The Saints struggled to find rhythm, finishing outside the playoff picture and leaving fans and analysts questioning whether Carr was the right fit for head coach Dennis Allen’s system.

While Carr delivered respectable numbers in terms of passing yards and touchdowns, his inability to elevate the offense in critical moments may have sealed his fate.

Why the Saints May Cut Ties with Derek Carr

There are several factors at play when considering the Saints’ decision to part ways with Carr. Here are the primary reasons why New Orleans may move on:

1. Salary Cap Constraints

The Saints have long been known for their complex salary cap management, often restructuring contracts to create cap space.

Carr’s current deal carries a significant cap hit, and if the Saints cut him before June 1, they could spread the dead cap hit over multiple years, alleviating some financial pressure.

A post-June 1 release would free up even more cap space for a potential marquee signing or trade.

2. Lack of Offensive Improvement

Despite an arsenal of weapons, including Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara, and Rashid Shaheed, the Saints’ offense has failed to meet expectations.

Carr’s inability to consistently stretch the field and execute in crucial moments has raised concerns among the coaching staff and front office.

3. Potential Upgrade at Quarterback

With several high-profile quarterbacks potentially available via free agency, trades, or the draft, the Saints may see this offseason as an opportunity to land a true difference-maker.

If the front office believes they can secure an elite quarterback, moving on from Carr becomes a logical step.

Who Could Replace Derek Carr? Potential Superstar Quarterback Options

If the Saints do decide to move on from Derek Carr, they will need a high-caliber quarterback to take the reins. Here are some of the most intriguing possibilities:

1. Kirk Cousins (Free Agency)

With his contract expiring in Minnesota, Kirk Cousins could be an option for the Saints.

While older, Cousins has remained a highly efficient passer and could provide the offense with a more dynamic passing attack.

2. Justin Fields (Trade Target)

Rumors continue to swirl about the Chicago Bears moving on from Justin Fields if they select a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Fields’ dual-threat ability would bring a different dimension to the Saints’ offense.

3. Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, or Jayden Daniels (NFL Draft)

The Saints could explore drafting a young quarterback if they believe in the long-term potential of a rookie.

Moving up in the draft to secure a top-tier prospect would be costly but could set the franchise up for sustained success.

4. Russell Wilson (Veteran Reclamation Project)

Wilson’s tenure with the Denver Broncos has been turbulent, but if released, he could be an intriguing short-term solution for a team looking for leadership and experience.

The Saints’ Path Forward: Rebuild or Reload?

The potential decision to part ways with Derek Carr is not just about the quarterback—it’s about the future of the Saints franchise.

New Orleans must decide whether they are in a position to compete immediately or if a rebuild is necessary.

1. Retooling for Immediate Contention

If the Saints believe they are a quarterback away from competing for an NFC South title and making a playoff run, they could aggressively pursue a proven veteran to replace Carr.

This approach would likely involve restructuring contracts and making strategic free-agent signings to bolster the roster.

2. Committing to a Rebuild

If the front office determines that the team’s issues go beyond the quarterback position, they may opt for a full-scale rebuild.

This could mean prioritizing young talent, stockpiling draft picks, and potentially even making coaching staff changes to establish a new direction.

What’s Next for the Saints?

As the NFL offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Saints’ decision regarding Derek Carr.

If the team ultimately moves on, the quarterback carousel will spin rapidly as speculation mounts over who will step in as the next leader of the offense.

For now, Saints fans will have to wait and see whether this rumor becomes reality.

If New Orleans does decide to cut ties with Carr, expect a flurry of moves that could redefine the team’s trajectory for years to come.

One thing is certain—the Saints are preparing to make a bold statement about their future at quarterback.