The NFL offseason is always ripe with rumors, trades, and potential blockbuster moves, but one of the most intriguing stories making the rounds this year is the possibility of the New Orleans Saints pursuing a star veteran quarterback to replace Derek Carr. While Carr, who signed with the Saints in 2023, was brought in to be the centerpiece of New Orleans’ offense, reports are now surfacing that the team may be looking for a fresh direction at quarterback—possibly even one of the biggest names in the game.
The Saints, long known for their high-powered offenses under former head coach Sean Payton and with future Hall of Famer Drew Brees at the helm, have struggled to find the right successor at quarterback in the post-Brees era. While Carr has been solid, his performance hasn’t necessarily lived up to the expectations New Orleans had for their QB1. With the Saints still very much in the playoff hunt in the NFC South and an aging roster that could be in need of a rejuvenation, it’s no surprise that reports of them targeting a star veteran QB have generated significant buzz.
But which veteran quarterback could replace Carr in New Orleans? And what would the ramifications be for the Saints’ long-term future? Let’s dive into the key factors behind the Saints’ rumored interest and the potential impact of such a bold move.
### The Current Situation in New Orleans
To understand why the Saints may be looking for a new quarterback, it’s important to first take a closer look at their current situation with Derek Carr.
Carr, who arrived in New Orleans after spending nearly a decade with the Las Vegas Raiders, was signed with high hopes. In his first season with the Saints, Carr helped guide the team to an 8-9 record and a division title in the NFC South. While the Saints’ defense was strong and their offensive weapons—like running back Alvin Kamara and wide receiver Chris Olave—provided flashes of brilliance, Carr’s play didn’t always match the level of consistency needed to elevate the team to true Super Bowl contention.
Carr finished the season with respectable numbers—completing 64% of his passes for 3,500 yards and 24 touchdowns—but he also struggled with inconsistency and turnovers, which became a point of frustration for both fans and coaches. While Carr isn’t the sole reason for New Orleans’ underperformance, his inability to take the offense to the next level has prompted the front office to explore other options under center.
The Saints have a solid roster, but there’s a belief that they might be one elite quarterback away from being true Super Bowl contenders once again. With a defense that ranks among the NFL’s best, an emerging wide receiver in Olave, and the dynamic potential of Kamara, New Orleans could be in a position to make a splash move for a star QB.
### The Veteran Quarterback Market: Who Could Replace Derek Carr?
When it comes to replacing a veteran quarterback like Carr, the Saints could look at several high-profile names on the trade or free-agent markets. Over the last few weeks, a few specific quarterbacks have been mentioned in rumors, and some of the biggest names in the league could be available.
1. **Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings)**: One of the most logical candidates to replace Carr is Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings. Cousins has been a polarizing figure throughout his career, often criticized for his inability to win big games but still putting up impressive regular-season numbers. With the Vikings reportedly in rebuilding mode and facing a potential transition at quarterback, Cousins could become available via trade.
Cousins, who has a reputation for being durable and consistent, could be a good fit for a Saints team that has a solid offensive foundation but needs a quarterback who can perform in clutch moments. His experience in the NFC North, his ability to manage an offense, and his consistency would make him a major upgrade over Carr. If the Saints make a move for Cousins, they would likely have to part with draft capital, but Cousins could offer the stability and leadership that Carr couldn’t fully provide.
2. **Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers)**: While it may sound far-fetched, there has been speculation that Aaron Rodgers, one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, could be available if he decides to leave Green Bay. The Packers and Rodgers’ relationship has been a topic of interest for years, and after a tumultuous 2023 season, some believe Rodgers could look for a change of scenery.
If Rodgers were to consider leaving Green Bay, the Saints could be an intriguing destination for him. A franchise with a strong defense, talented weapons, and a competitive window could entice Rodgers, who is reportedly focused on finding a team that gives him a legitimate shot at another Super Bowl. With his experience and leadership, Rodgers would instantly elevate the Saints’ offense and provide the veteran presence they need. Of course, landing Rodgers would likely come with a hefty price tag—both financially and in terms of trade compensation—but the upside would be immense.
3. **Jimmy Garoppolo (Las Vegas Raiders)**: Another quarterback who could be on the move is Jimmy Garoppolo, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers and currently with the Las Vegas Raiders. Garoppolo has had success in the NFL, leading teams to multiple deep playoff runs, and his ability to manage games with a strong supporting cast has made him a popular name in trade rumors. The Raiders’ decision to move on from Garoppolo in favor of a younger quarterback could open the door for the Saints to acquire him.
Garoppolo’s strengths are in his quick release, ability to read defenses, and leadership. His experience in big games, including a Super Bowl appearance with the 49ers, could be exactly what the Saints need. Garoppolo is less of a high-ceiling quarterback than some of the other options on this list, but he would bring stability and a proven track record. His acquisition would likely come at a lower price than someone like Rodgers or Cousins, making him an interesting option for a Saints team that is looking to compete immediately without mortgaging its future.
### Why the Saints Are Interested
The Saints’ rumored pursuit of a star veteran quarterback is a clear sign that they are in “win-now” mode. New Orleans is in an interesting position where they have a competitive roster but have failed to put everything together at the quarterback position. After Brees’ retirement, the team has tried a few different options—Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and now Carr—but none have been able to bring the offense to a championship level.
If the Saints want to make another Super Bowl run, they need a quarterback who can elevate the play of everyone around him and handle the pressure of big moments. With an established defense and a strong group of offensive playmakers, New Orleans doesn’t need a quarterback who is simply “good enough.” They need a proven leader who can perform at an elite level and put the team over the top.
In a division that could be in flux in the near future, the Saints have a window to make a splash at the quarterback position. The NFC South isn’t likely to have a dominant team in 2025, and with Tom Brady’s departure from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and other teams in transition, the Saints may feel that they’re one quarterback away from securing division titles and playoff success for years to come.
### Conclusion: A Bold Move for New Orleans
While the Saints’ pursuit of a star veteran quarterback to replace Derek Carr is speculative at this stage, it represents an intriguing move for the franchise. With their current roster and an aging window of talent, the Saints are clearly looking for a player who can elevate them into Super Bowl contention once again. Whether they pursue Kirk Cousins, Aaron Rodgers, or Jimmy Garoppolo, this offseason could be pivotal for the future of the team.
The Saints have the pieces in place—now they just need the right quarterback to push them over the edge. If they can land a top-tier veteran, New Orleans could find itself back in the conversation as one of the league’s most dangerous teams. Only time will tell if the Saints make this bold move, but the possibility alone is enough to get fans excited about the future.