Could Saints Trade Derek Carr at 2026 NFL Deadline?

NEW ORLEANS, La. — As the NFL trade deadline approaches, speculation continues about potential moves the New Orleans Saints could make regarding quarterback Derek Carr.

When Joe Burrow suffered an injury last month, some fans began to wonder if Carr might be a trade target, especially since the Saints still hold his contract. If Carr recovers from his shoulder injury in time for the 2026 season, teams interested in him will need to offer compensation to the Saints.

Some fans dream of a substantial return, recalling the trade that sent Carson Palmer from the Bengals to the Raiders in 2011 for two high draft picks. However, sources agree that the circumstances surrounding Carr’s situation differ greatly, making such a return unlikely.

Recent trades offer insight into Carr’s potential market value. For instance, former Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller was recently traded from the Raiders to the Giants for a 2026 sixth-round pick, potentially including a conditional seventh-round pick later. This illustrates the current low-end for trades of star-caliber players, a reality Saints fans must consider.

In 2017, the Raiders traded Marshawn Lynch back to Oakland, receiving a fifth-round pick in return, while also sending a sixth-round pick. Similarly, when the Buccaneers acquired tight end Rob Gronkowski, they gave up a fourth-round pick for a seventh-round pick, further establishing a baseline for trade discussions.

If Carr is healthy and looking to play in 2026, an opportunity may arise, such as with a playoff-ready team like the Minnesota Vikings. In that scenario, the Saints could negotiate a pick swap, potentially acquiring a third-round pick in exchange for a combination of Carr and a lower pick.

Despite the optimism around a potential deal, it’s essential to recognize that the Saints’ focus should be on accumulating picks rather than losing them. There remains uncertainty surrounding Carr’s future, especially if he opts to sit out the 2026 season aiming for a comeback in 2027.

As the offseason approaches, the Saints’ management will need to navigate their options carefully as the market develops.