The Saints restructured Carr’s contract earlier today, a source with knowledge of the situation confirmed — a move that all but guarantees he’ll be on the roster, and the team’s likely starter, next season…

The New Orleans Saints have taken a significant step in solidifying their quarterback position by restructuring Derek Carr’s contract earlier today. This decision, confirmed by a source with knowledge of the situation, not only signals the team’s commitment to Carr but also indicates that he is likely to be the starting quarterback for the upcoming season.

Derek Carr, who joined the Saints in March 2023, had a tumultuous final season with the Las Vegas Raiders before making his transition to New Orleans. Despite the rocky start to his Saints career, Carr showed flashes of his potential, demonstrating why he was a sought-after quarterback during the offseason. With the Saints’ leadership believing in Carr’s ability to lead the offense, this contract restructuring is a testament to their confidence in his capabilities.

By restructuring Carr’s contract, the Saints have created some much-needed cap space that can be utilized to strengthen other areas of the roster. This move not only reflects the front office’s strategy to optimize their salary cap situation but also emphasizes their intention to build a competitive team around Carr. A restructured contract often serves to reallocate money into bonuses or future earnings, giving teams flexibility in player spending. The Saints, known for their intricate financial maneuvering, are leveraging this to enhance their roster and improve their chances in the highly competitive NFC South.

From Carr’s perspective, this is also a pivotal moment in his career. Being effectively guaranteed a spot on the roster and likely being named the starter puts him in a position for redemption. After his departure from the Raiders, where he faced criticism and uncertainty, Carr will have the opportunity to prove that he can thrive with a different team. The Saints have a robust offense featuring talented playmakers like wide receiver Chris Olave and running back Alvin Kamara, which provides Carr with the necessary tools to succeed. A healthy and effective offensive line will also be crucial, as it will give Carr the protection he needs to execute plays.

Moving into the next season, the coaching staff will undoubtedly focus on implementing a game plan that plays to Carr’s strengths. Known for his strong arm and quick release, Carr excels in a system that values downfield passing. The Saints’ offensive coordinator, Pete Carmichael, will likely tailor their playbook to maximize Carr’s skill set, encouraging him to take calculated risks while maintaining efficiency.

Moreover, this decision aligns with the Saints’ broader vision of consistency at the quarterback position. In recent seasons, they have experienced instability under center, which has hampered their offensive production. By committing to Carr, the team is signaling a desire for reliability and leadership moving forward. Building chemistry with the coaching staff and teammates will be paramount for Carr, as it will play a significant role in the team’s success in the upcoming season.

In conclusion, the restructuring of Derek Carr’s contract is a strategic move that has significant implications for the Saints. With Carr likely locked in as the starting quarterback, the team can build with a sense of stability as they aim for a playoff run in the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, eyes will be closely watching how the Saints bolster their roster around Carr, hoping to capitalize on the potential he brings to the franchise.