The Saints are expected to restructure Derek Carr's contract during 2024 offseason
The New Orleans Saints still need an offensive coordinator. That decision is expected soon, but expect them to choose someone that will play to the strengths of quarterback Derek Carr. Carr's current contract is built to have an affordable 'out' for New Orleans following next season. That being said, it seems unlikely that his deal […]
The New Orleans Saints still need an offensive coordinator. That decision is expected soon, but expect them to choose someone that will play to the strengths of quarterback Derek Carr.
Carr's current contract is built to have an affordable 'out' for New Orleans following next season. That being said, it seems unlikely that his deal remains the same during this offseason. The Saints are just over the salary cap by $83 million. They'll need to make a plethora of moves in order to become cap compliant, and restructuring Carr's deal will cost likely be one of those.
According to Luke Johnson of NOLA.com, the widespread belief is that the Saints will restructure Carr's contract to clear cap space.
Johnson notes that this belief comes from conversations occurring at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. The restructuring would most likely tie Carr to the Saints for at least the next two seasons.
Carr is set to make $30 million in base salary in 2024. If the Saints chose the most aggressive route and convert all but the veteran minimum ($1.21 million) to signing bonus, they could lower Carr’s 2024 cap hit to about $14.2 million, clearing more than $21 million in immediate cap relief — and even more if they decide to tack on a void year.
For New Orleans, it is a move that was basically decided last offseason. They knew that their structure of Carr's deal would lead to this decision in the future – most likely.
The Saints have been managing the cap in this manner for quite some time, so this type of move would not be a surprise for them. It was forecasted, whether fans agree with it or not.
Carr played through a plethora of injuries in 2023. The final two months of his season looked much more impressive than the first half of the year, too. The offense seemingly was trending up to finish the season.
Regardless, expect Carr to be the starter in New Orleans next season, undoubtedly, and to remain on the roster for multiple more years.
Former Saints QB strongly defends Derek Carr amid offense’s struggles
It is no secret that the New Orleans Saints offense has not been impressive for most of this season. The inconsistencies are frustrating, and quarterback Derek Carr is catching plenty of frustration. Carr has just six touchdowns in seven starts. Miscommunication has slapped their offense in the face. Former Saints QB Chase Daniel doesn't think […]
