By Ross Jackson
With several NFL clubs either in search or teetering on the need for a new starting quarterback, the limited draft options and slim free agency field could work to the advantage of the New Orleans Saints.
The NFC South club has its starting quarterback in 2025 second-rounder Tyler Shough, but still owns the rights of former starter Derek Carr for another year. Carr and his brother David have made several references to the former Las Vegas Raiders passer making a potential return to the league after spending a year in retirement.
Former Raiders QB Derek Carr is asked about Klint Kubiak possibly being the next Raiders Head Coach
“That would be so awesome”
David Carr “Yea would it be? How awesome? (Starts singing I’m coming home) if you get Klint, maybe” 🤔 👀 pic.twitter.com/DfoeogMzFf
— ShifftttyyyQB1🏴☠️ (@raiders1022) January 5, 2026
If he were to make a return, the Saints would be in line to receive some potential compensation in the process.
With the 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class underperforming expectations, there will likely be more job openings than there are starting options across the NFL.
The following teams are or could end up in search for their next starter:
- Arizona Cardinals
- Cleveland Browns
- Indianapolis Colts
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Miami Dolphins
- Minnesota Vikings
- New York Giants
- New York Jets
- Pittsburgh Steelers
With the Raiders and Jets in position to land their next lead arms atop the draft order, other teams will have to consider a short supply on the open market. The clubs at the top of the draft may also be interested in a veteran starter to give their rookies a chance to sit, watch and learn before becoming starters in their new systems.
In which case, Carr could become a viable option. Should a team be interested, the asking price likely wouldn’t break any draft asset banks. Anything more than a few day three picks would be a shock. While that might not be much for the acquiring team, who would have to absorb the remainder of his contract terms, those picks could be valuable for the Saints.
Selections, either in 2026 or 2027, would give New Orleans more fodder with which to continue to build its roster with cost-effective selections and could be used to mobilize around the draft or even trade for other veteran contributors.
If the Carrs’ heavily suggestive joking around a return comes to fruition, there are likely to be numerous landing spots available. That’s great news for the Saints should a potential trade become an option.
