Stance on Derek Carr’s Future at The New Orleans Saints.

“Derek Carr Holds the Cards: Will He Stay or Force the Saints’ Hand?”

As the New Orleans Saints weigh their options at quarterback, Derek Carr isn’t just a bystander—he’s a major player in the decision-making process. While much has been said about whether the Saints will move on from the veteran signal-caller, Carr himself holds significant leverage in determining his own fate.

Carr remains under contract with New Orleans for two more seasons, but his hefty cap hits—exceeding $50 million annually—coupled with his injury history and lackluster results have sparked conversations about his future. The arrival of offensive-minded head coach Kellen Moore adds another wrinkle, as the Saints transition into a new era that may or may not include Carr.

Carr’s Contract Gives Him Ultimate Control

NFL insider Mike Garafolo recently shed light on the power Carr wields this offseason. Thanks to the contract he signed two years ago, any potential departure isn’t as simple as the Saints cutting ties.

For starters, Carr has a no-trade clause, meaning he must approve any deal before being sent elsewhere. Finding a trade partner willing to absorb his contract is already a tall order, but that hurdle becomes even steeper when factoring in Carr’s ability to dictate where he goes.

Additionally, if the Saints hope to restructure his deal to free up cap space, they’ll need Carr’s consent. He has already made it clear that he won’t take a pay cut, though he has expressed a willingness to restructure. The challenge for New Orleans will be structuring any adjustment in a way that doesn’t compromise future cap flexibility or tie Carr to the team beyond 2026.

From The Insiders on @nflnetwork: For all the talk of the #Saints needing to make a decision on Derek Carr, it’s Carr who also has decisions to make, depending on the route New Orleans wants to go. pic.twitter.com/ZsP4Fcx8Ky

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 21, 2025

What Are the Saints’ Options?

With a trade unlikely and a restructure requiring careful negotiation, the Saints have limited paths forward. They can either stick with Carr for at least another season and hope Moore’s system helps him thrive, or they can move on entirely. However, if they choose to cut ties, they would absorb a significant dead cap hit—a financial burden that could impact the franchise for years.

In the end, Carr isn’t just waiting for the Saints to make a decision—he’s actively shaping the direction of his career. Whether he stays in New Orleans or forces the team’s hand, one thing is clear: Derek Carr will play a major role in determining his own fate.

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