The post-Derek Carr era in New Orleans has officially begun, and with it comes a whirlwind of questions about the Saints’ next move under center. Carr’s surprise retirement last weekend leaves the team scrambling for answers just weeks after the NFL Draft. With no clear starter in place, the race for QB1 in Week 1 is suddenly wide open.
Here are five quarterback options from Yardbarker that make sense for the Saints in 2025, ranging from the in-house rookie to a four-time MVP with Hollywood-level intrigue.
Tyler Shough: The Next Man Up?
Tyler Shough is the logical choice if the Saints stick to their board. They took the former Texas Tech and Oregon quarterback at No. 40 overall, well ahead of other high-profile names like Jalen Milroe, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel. That kind of draft capital sends a message: they see a future with him.
New head coach Kellen Moore, who is a former quarterback and a respected play-caller, might want to get his guy on the field right away. Shough brings size, mobility, and arm talent, but there’s no denying he’s raw. Starting him could mean growing pains and valuable reps for a potential franchise cornerstone.
Jameis Winston: The Familiar Face
Don’t count out a reunion. Jameis Winston spent four seasons in New Orleans, going 6-4 as a starter while endearing himself to the locker room and coaching staff. He’s currently in New York, backing up Russell Wilson, but the Giants’ first-round investment in Jaxson Dart complicates Winston’s path to playing time.
The Saints could pounce if Winston becomes a cap casualty or trade chip. He knows the system, the city, and the culture, and in a transition year, familiarity has real value.
Ryan Tannehill: The Veteran Placeholder
Ryan Tannehill didn’t play a snap last season but remains on the market and is reportedly open to the right opportunity. New Orleans could offer just that — a chance to start, stabilize the offense, and mentor Shough along the way.
He’s 36 and well past his Pro Bowl prime, but if the Saints want to give Shough time to develop without throwing him into the fire, Tannehill’s steady, risk-averse style could be a smart bridge option.
Taylor Heinicke: The Grit-and-Grind Wildcard
Need a stopgap who brings juice and experience? Enter Taylor Heinicke. The 32-year-old is currently set to back up Justin Herbert in L.A. He’s affordable, tradeable, and always ready to scrap.
Heinicke has started nearly 30 NFL games and could offer short-term stability with enough fire to keep the locker room engaged. This might be the most attainable route if the Saints are unsure about Shough but unwilling to go big-game hunting.
Aaron Rodgers: The Hail Mary
Yes, Aaron Rodgers is still a free agent, and yes, the Steelers are reportedly interested. But there’s been no official deal. If New Orleans wants to shake the NFL snow globe, picking up the phone on Rodgers could at least spark a conversation.
Would Rodgers entertain playing for a retooling team like the Saints? Maybe, especially with an ex-QB like Kellen Moore calling plays and a chance to play in a division that’s still wide open. Unlikely? Sure. But after Derek Carr’s sudden retirement, all bets are off.
The Saints aren’t just replacing a quarterback — they’re resetting their identity. Whether they hand the keys to a rookie, recycle a familiar face, or swing big for a star, the decision will define Kellen Moore’s first year and potentially reshape the next chapter of New Orleans football. If you enjoyed this article, check out our other sports lists next!
