INDIANAPOLIS — Mickey Loomis, the general manager of the New Orleans Saints, has expressed optimism about quarterback Derek Carr, labeling him as “a guy we can win with.” These sentiments were shared during a conversation with a select group of reporters who made their way to Indianapolis for the NFL scouting combine.
Following a four-year, $150 million contract in 2023, Carr has two more years in New Orleans. His tenure has been marked by a 14-13 record as a starter, including a 5-5 run during the injury-plagued 2024 season. The Saints concluded last season with a disappointing 5-12, the worst they have seen since their 3-13 finish in 2005. This was the year before Sean Payton and Drew Brees began their transformation of the franchise.
Sean Payton, who departed from the Saints post-2021, was succeeded by Dennis Allen, the former defensive coordinator. Allen, notably, was Carr’s coach when the quarterback was selected by the Raiders in 2014. However, during the 2024 season, Allen was relieved of his duties, making way for Darren Rizzi to step in as interim coach. Ultimately, Kellen Moore, the former offensive coordinator for the reigning Super Bowl winners, the Philadelphia Eagles, assumed the Saints’ head coaching position.
Although absent during New Orleans’ Super Bowl celebrations, Carr seemed an uncertain fit for Moore’s vision for the team. Yet, Moore later expressed in Indianapolis that they are fortunate to have the veteran quarterback on their roster. He praised Carr, describing him as a significant player in the league.
With attempts to manage their salary cap for the coming years, the Saints face challenges associated with Carr’s hefty contract. His current deal could account for approximately $51 million against the cap in the next season. However, New Orleans is contemplating converting part of his salary into bonuses, a move that would require Carr’s agreement.
Reflecting on Carr’s performance last season, he completed 67.7% of his passes, amassing 2,145 yards and achieving 15 touchdowns against five interceptions, while being sacked just eight times. Unfortunately, Carr was beset by a series of injuries, including an oblique strain and later, a concussion and broken left hand that curtailed his season. During his absence, backup quarterbacks Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener struggled to find success, failing to win any games they started.
