Matt Stafford’s market could indicate strong interest for Saints’ Derek Carr

By Ross Jackson

While the NFL Combine is the premiere opportunity for draft prospects to work out and interview with NFL clubs, it also serves as an important week in getting some big and sometimes surprising deals done. 

One of the most intriguing storylines heading into this year’s event revolves around Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. The veteran signal caller and Super Bowl winner has been given permission to pursue a trade opportunity. While the New Orleans Saints are unlikely to pursue Stafford, how the market unfolds for him could provide insight into their plans for starting quarterback Derek Carr. 

It’s still unclear whether or not the Saints will move ahead with Carr as their starter in 2025. Financially, it may be the most sound decision, but clubs have shown recently that finances may not be enough to keep things together. Any team interested in Stafford that doesn’t land him could potentially convince the Saints to make a move, should Carr be willing to waive his no-trade clause. 

Stafford has reportedly drawn interest from several teams. Per SI’s Albert Breer, the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers are among those that have shown their interest. 

If any of those teams continue to be desperate for a solution at quarterback and the Saints decide it’s time to part ways with Carr, there’s a chance that something could come to fruition. 

With all teams in attendance in Indianapolis, this is exactly the week to further those conversations. 

One team not named that could also be interested in Carr would be the New York Jets, who pursued the passer at the same time as New Orleans in 2023. 

A trade would net the Saints over $11 million in saved salary. Which is just over a third of what a full restructure could save them. Any decision around Carr must be made before March 14, as $30 million of his base salary becomes guaranteed on the third day of the 2025 league year. 

Stafford and the Rams may just be gauging the market to benefit their own negotiations, which could drive up a trade market for another option should he remain in Los Angeles. The Saints should be keenly aware of this situation in gauging possibilities of their own.