Announcement: Saints Agree Deal To Sign $160 Million Pro Bowler To Replace Derek Carr

Despite setbacks, Derek Carr of the New Orleans Saints still has a chance to redeem himself. Despite injuries, he led the Saints to a 9-8 record in the second half of the season. However, the Packers’ 17-point comeback in Week 3 prevented him from clinching the NFC South title and a postseason spot, which went to the Bucs.

This summer, Carr’s deal was restructured to advance part of his owing money ($100 million over four years and $150 million guaranteed), reducing the team’s salary cap figure and committing him to the organization until 2024-2025. But in the NFL, there is always an escape.

If the Saints struggle in New Orleans and the division improves (Tampa, Falcons, Panthers), they may be willing to part ways with Carr. The Saints have expressed interest in acquiring Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, if he becomes available.

According to contract database Spotrac, the Saints are among the teams interested in Prescott next offseason.

During the “Spotrac Podcast” this week, contract expert Mike Ginnitti mentioned the Saints-Prescott connection: “The Saints will be moving on from Derek Carr after this season, that’s a great candidate.” That was a connection the previous time this contract issue arose.”

Saints’ Derek Carr Under Pressure in 2024

Of course, the Saints’ possible pursuit of Prescott involves a lot of “ifs”. Again, there is reason to expect the squad can win the division, particularly given its performance in the final five weeks of 2023.

The schedule is not difficult—based on expected win totals, the NFL analysis site Sharp Football predicts the Saints to have the league’s fifth-easiest schedule. The offense’s ability to adapt to new coordinator Klint Kubiak’s plans will be crucial. Kubiak was hired from the 49ers to replace Pete Carmichael, who had been retained by the Saints after Sean Payton left.

Carr has worked hard this offseason to adjust to Kubiak’s scheme, well aware that he is nearing the end of his chances to stay with the organization in the future.

“I can’t say enough good things about Carr,” Kubiak stated, according to GulfLive.com. “From how he learns to what kind of professional he is. He’s highly coachable; he’s harsh on himself and his teammates, and he has the demeanor you want.”

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Many Teams Could Go After Dak Prescott in 2025

Still, the Prescott option would have to pique the Saints’ interest if Carr demonstrates he is not up to the task. But that also involves a significant “if”—specifically, if the Cowboys let Prescott depart without offering him a new contract.

Prescott’s four-year, $160 million contract is set to expire in March, making it increasingly likely that he will enter free agency. He has little reason to sign anymore.

“I feel like (agents are) calling him and being like, ‘Dude, don’t even pick up the phone anymore, March 12 is happening—you gotta let this go to free agency, you gotta get nine offers, you gotta let this happen,'” said Ginnitti. “That’s the true approach to maximize what he’s doing right now. He’s done everything else correctly—no tags, voids, and everything else is on his side. To not pursue free agency now would be a tragedy, in my opinion.”

If free agency occurs, the Saints will have to compete against a bevy of other teams, notably the Cowboys, but also the Raiders, Giants, Seahawks, and others. Another huge “if.” However, it is probable that New Orleans will be involved.