The New Orleans Saints face a potential crisis at quarterback following reports that Derek Carr has suffered a shoulder injury that “has put his availability for 2025 in doubt,” per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Carr is reportedly considering surgery, casting further uncertainty over his status as the team’s starter heading into the upcoming season.
However, that could open the gates for another veteran signal caller to come in in New Orleans.
Derek Carr’s Uncertain Status Opens Door for Aaron Rodgers
Carr was set to begin the third season of his four-year, $150 million contract, after the Saints recently restructured the deal by converting a significant portion of his 2025 salary into a signing bonus. Despite the Saints’ disappointing 5-12 finish last season, they were 5-5 in games Carr started, underscoring his value to the team.
His 2024 performance was his best in New Orleans, earning a grade of 83.3 (11th in the league) and ranking inside the top 10 in several advanced passing metrics, according to PFSN’s QB+ metric.
In contrast, Aaron Rodgers, now the most notable free agent quarterback available, had a rough year with the New York Jets. His 2024 QB+ was a disappointing 72.2 (21st), and he ranked near the bottom in EPA per dropback (-0.02, 27th) and third-down conversion rate (33.5%, 29th). Despite these numbers, Rodgers remains a major draw — a four-time MVP with unmatched experience and late-game poise.
With Carr’s injury creating a vacuum, New Orleans has been floated as a new suitor for Rodgers. As Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk put it: “With Saints quarterback Derek Carr reportedly suffering from a shoulder injury that could impact his availability for 2025, the Saints suddenly need a quarterback. And Aaron Rodgers is the best available free agent.”
Florio further noted, “Expect to see a report, sooner than later, that the Saints have reached out. Whether it goes anywhere remains to be seen. However, New Orleans becomes another option for Rodgers.”
From Rodg͏er͏s͏’ perspective,͏ New Orleans could present an͏ appealing opportunity. The Saints boast strong offensive weapons in Chris͏ Olav͏e and A͏lvin͏ Kamara, and their defence remains capable of͏ keeping games competitive. Additionally, ͏the NFC South is considered͏ one of the league’s more open divisions; a potential playoff berth is not far-fetched with competent quarterback play.
Could #Saints join #Steelers in Aaron Rodgers sweepstakes?https://t.co/muqtmCtSCx
— Steelers Now (@PghSteelersNow) April 11, 2025
Compared to Pittsburgh, long rumored to be Rodgers’ most likely destination, the Saints may offer a quicker path to contention and a clearer starting role. The Vikings also linger as a possibility, but cap space and scheme fit could complicate their pursuit.
Ultimately, Rodgers must weigh his options carefully. The Saints may not be a perfect team, but with Carr’s future uncertain and the NFC South wide open, New Orleans might just be the best place for one last run.