NFL Rumors: Derek Carr 'in Line' to Return to Saints in 2025 amid Salary Cap Issues

The New Orleans Saints could keep Derek Carr as the team's starting quarterback in 2025 due to a lack of salary cap flexibility, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

"Whoever takes over as the coach in New Orleans will have a major quarterback question," Schefter said during an appearance on Monday Night Countdown. "But right now, because this team is so strapped against the cap, Derek Carr is in line to be back next year. They don't have a lot of flexibility, he makes the most sense. And it certainly looks like he can be back next season."

The 33-year-old has started 10 games for New Orleans in 2024, finishing with a record of 5-5. The Saints currently sit at No. 3 in the NFC South standings with a 5-9 overall record.

New Orleans is projected to be $63.8 million above the 2025 salary cap, per Over the Cap.

As for Carr, he's signed with the Saints for two more seasons. He'll carry a $51.5 million cap hit in 2025 and a $61.5 million hit in 2026, via Spotrac. Carr also has a guaranteed $10 million roster bonus next season.

His $30 million base salary for his next year in New Orleans also becomes fully guaranteed on the third day of the 2025 league year (h/t ESPN's Katherine Terrell).

Carr hasn't exceeded expectations with the Saints, as they've failed to make the playoffs in both seasons since he joined the team in March 2023.

In the veteran's 10 starts this year, he's completed 67.7 percent of his throws for 2,145 yards and 15 touchdowns compared to five interceptions. His average of 214.5 yards per game through the air represents his lowest mark since 2014.

A lack of superior options may keep Carr in the black and gold next season, though. Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener have started under center in the games that he's missed, with both players failing to stand out.

The two have combined to complete 54.7 percent of their throws for 932 yards and three touchdowns compared to three interceptions.

If the Saints can't find a way to gain some cap relief, they might be heading into their 2025 campaign with a familiar face at quarterback.