Saints HC Kellen Moore 'Really Excited' for Derek Carr amid Rumors on QB's Future

During his introductory press conference on Thursday, newly hired New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore had some interesting things to say about quarterback Derek Carr.

Per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, Moore said, "Derek’s a tremendous quarterback in this league. … He’s a starter in this league. He’s a premier player in this league. … Really excited to team up with him and go through this process."

However, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reported that Moore was "pressed on where he stands" on Carr during the Q&A portion of the press conference, and he "would not make a commitment either way as to whether or not" Carr was his quarterback.

Many have speculated that Carr could be cut by the Saints this offseason. He carries a massive cap hit of over $51 million for the 2025 campaign, creating a potentially untenable situation. Per Over The Cap, New Orleans is projected to be $54.1 million over the salary cap this year, which is $24 million more than the next closest team.

In 2024, Carr struggled to stay healthy and was limited to 10 games due to a fractured hand and a concussion. He finished with 2,145 yards, 15 touchdowns and five interceptions. The Saints were 5-5 in games he started and finished the year with a 5-12 record.

Carr will turn 34 in March, so it wouldn't be a surprise if New Orleans chooses to pursue a younger, cheaper option. Spencer Rattler, a 2024 fifth-round pick, gained some valuable experience in Carr's absence, and the team will have the No. 9 pick in the 2025 NFL draft.

Moore spent the 2024 season as offensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles and helped lead the team to victory in Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs. He will surely be looking to get his tenure in New Orleans started on a positive note, so he will have to evaluate whether it's best to move on from Carr.