What Does Saints QB Room Look Like After Shocking Derek Carr Retirement

Published: Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 3:41 pm

Saints QB Room in Turmoil After Derek Carr's Shock Retirement

The New Orleans Saints are reeling after quarterback Derek Carr announced his unexpected retirement from the NFL. The news, which sent shockwaves through the league, stems from a lingering shoulder injury that threatened his ability to return to his previous form. Carr, after reflecting and discussing with his family, decided to hang up his cleats after an 11-year career, leaving the Saints scrambling to fill the crucial quarterback position.

Carr's departure leaves a significant void, forcing the Saints to re-evaluate their quarterback depth chart. The team now looks to a trio of young players to potentially lead the offense.

Tyler Shough, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, is a promising prospect. The Saints drafted him partly due to concerns about Carr's injury. Shough, 25, impressed at the NFL Combine and Pro Day, and last season at Louisville, he threw for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions. The Saints may want to ease him into the starting role.

Spencer Rattler offers some experience, having filled in for Carr last season. The former South Carolina quarterback threw for 1,317 yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions in seven games. While he has some experience, his performance didn't particularly stand out.

Jake Haener, a fourth-round pick in the 2023 draft, also presents an option. He started one game last season, throwing for 226 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. However, he doesn't offer anything particularly special to the team.

The Saints face a critical decision as they navigate the post-Carr era. The team will need to determine who will step up and lead the offense in the upcoming season.

Keywords: New Orleans Saints, Saints, Derek Carr, retirement, quarterback, NFL, Tyler Shough, Spencer Rattler, Jake Haener, injury, shoulder injury, 2025 NFL draft, Louisville, South Carolina, Fresno State, Saints quarterback, Saints QB, NFL news

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