Saints Face Tough Decisions on Derek Carr and Cap Space in 2025 Offseason

The New Orleans Saints are entering a pivotal offseason in 2025, with major decisions looming regarding veteran quarterback Derek Carr and their dire salary cap situation. The Saints finished the 2024 season with a disappointing 5-12 record, landing them the ninth overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. However, their financial constraints and roster needs could force significant changes, particularly at the quarterback position.

Derek Carr, who joined the Saints in 2023, has a contract that complicates the team’s cap flexibility. If released before June 1, the Saints would incur over $30 million in dead cap space. However, designating him as a post-June 1 cut would save the team $30 million in 2025, compared to just over $1 million if released earlier. This decision will be critical as the Saints are currently over the salary cap limit, making roster adjustments a necessity.

The Saints’ backup options, Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener, are not seen as long-term solutions, leaving the team in search of a bridge quarterback. Russell Wilson, recently with the Pittsburgh Steelers, has emerged as a potential target. Wilson, who had a resurgence in 2024 after taking over as the Steelers’ starter, finished the season with 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions. His performance could make him an affordable option for teams like the Saints, who need a veteran presence without breaking the bank.

New Orleans’ recent draft history highlights their focus on building through the trenches, with first-round picks like offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga (2024) and defensive tackle Bryan Bresee (2023). However, the team’s struggles in 2024 underscore the need for a more balanced approach, particularly at quarterback. The Saints’ ninth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, set for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, could provide an opportunity to address this need.

As the offseason unfolds, the Saints’ front office will need to navigate their cap challenges while making strategic moves to rebuild a competitive roster. Whether they retain Carr, pursue Wilson, or explore other options, the decisions made in the coming months will shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.