Did the Saints Move too Fast?

Patty V • March 8, 2023

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The Saints have their guy. With the recent acquisition of Derek Carr, the New Orleans Saints have seemingly solidified their Quarterback position for at least the next two seasons. I’m still not able to fully comprehend the contract that Carr has signed, but one thing remains true: the cap is a myth. 


There is a lot to be said about what Carr brings to the table, and the opinions seem to be mixed amongst fans when it comes to the signing. If you are one to put stock into winning percentage for a QB, Carr may not be your guy. He is a career 63-79. He is also coming off of one of his worst seasons as a pro, being benched late in the year as the team signified they were ready to move away from their vet. 


With this being known, should we be alarmed? My short answer is no, but I’ll elaborate. First and foremost, I’ll start with Josh McDaniels. McDaniels, outside of New England has proven to make every wrong decision, and as an “offensive guru”, has had the 19th, 20th, 31st, and 12th ranked scoring offenses. The quarterback of that 12th ranked offense? Derek Carr. 


Through Carr’s history he has been troubled with playing for a franchise that has been extremely questionable at best. In his nine years he’s had 6 coaches, 4 offensive coordinators, some of which left and returned, and 3 GMs. He’s also had to deal with a head coach being removed to scandal, and a WR who is now known for one of the worst accidents in NFL history. Oh, he also dealt with relocation. During all of this, he’s been faced with competing against a Chiefs dynasty that has been nothing but a model of excellency. 


So, what are you gettin in Carr? First and foremost, you are getting a leader. Carr has been nothing but professional throughout his entire career, handling animosity with grace at every turn. From a talent standpoint, he is a former MVP candidate with a live arm, who has excellent pocket mobility. He makes good reads, PRE SNAP ADJUSTMENTS, and quick decisions. The last two have been major issues for the Saints under center since Drew Brees retired. Also, outside of Matt Stafford, Carr has the second most career 4th quarter comebacks in the NFL in his career for active players. (Stay retired Brady)


However, even with all that, we now know Lamar Jackson is potentially available to any team willing to make a godfather offer. So the question is, did the Saints move too fast? I’ll answer like this: maybe, but you’ll never know. I’m always on board with going all in on getting an MVP caliber quarterback, who is a generational talent. Would the Saints have had a shot? You’ll never know. However, what I can say, is that the Saints should be happy with what they have, and Carr is an excellent fit for this team. 


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