Who could be the next quarterback of the New Orleans Saints?

Aaron Rodgers (Mike Morbeck, Wikimedia Commons)

The New Orleans Saints made National Football League headlines this week when the announcement was made that quarterback Derek Carr retired at age 34. The retirement news actually saves the Saints some money as Carr was to make $40 million in 2026, but it puts the Saints in a difficult situation as they are now trying to find a quarterback prior to the start of the season. Here are five options.

1) Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been the team linked most recently to Aaron Rodgers, the four-time NFL MVP. However, the fact Pittsburgh has not come to terms on a contract with Rodgers as of yet, makes one wonder if they ever will. The Saints have had a veteran quarterback at the helm before in Drew Brees, and Rodgers could fit that role again. Things did not go well in New York for Rodgers, and he may want to end his career on a high note.

2) DeShaun Watson

The Cleveland Browns have five quarterbacks on the roster at the moment. It appears they are planning to move on from DeShaun Watson. Why else would they have Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders?

3) Tyler Shough

The Saints drafted Shough in the second round, 40th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft out of the University of Louisville. Even though he is 25 years old, Shough is still a rookie, and would still need several games to learn the NFL brand.

4) Spencer Rattler

Rattler was 0-6 last season in New Orleans. He saw playing time due to Carr’s injuries. Rattler was not very effective, but could see action because he knows New Orleans’s offense.

5) Carson Wentz

Last season Wentz was the backup in Kansas City. A year earlier he was the backup for the Los Angeles Rams. This may be Wentz’s last opportunity to show he can once again be a starter.