DONE DEAL: Jimmy Garoppolo Signs a 4-year Contract With the New Orleans Saints, $105 Million as their new…

In a major offseason shake-up, the New Orleans Saints have officially signed veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a 4-year, $105 million contract, naming him the franchise’s new starting quarterback and offensive field general heading into the 2025 season.

The move marks a fresh start for Garoppolo, who is determined to reclaim his reputation as a winning quarterback while guiding a Saints roster filled with young talent and hungry veterans.

“New city, new energy, same mission — win football games, lead the locker room, and bring playoff football back to New Orleans,” Garoppolo said at the team facility Friday morning. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and ready to go to work.”

Contract Breakdown: Strategic and Motivating

The $105 million deal includes:

•$72 million guaranteed

•$10 million signing bonus

•Annual roster bonuses tied to performance and playoff appearances

•An optional fifth year based on team performance

•A clause granting Garoppolo offensive leadership privileges, including influence in scheme design and staff collaboration

Why New Orleans Made the Move

After a disappointing 2024 season and inconsistency at the quarterback position, the Saints front office sought a veteran with leadership, playoff experience, and a hunger to prove himself. Garoppolo — a two-time Super Bowl participant and former 49ers starter — checked every box.

“Jimmy brings poise, toughness, and a winning pedigree,” said Saints head coach Dennis Allen. “This locker room is ready to rally behind a guy like him.”

Garoppolo’s Road to Redemption

The 33-year-old quarterback has had a career marked by high expectations, postseason runs, and injury setbacks. After stints with the Patriots, 49ers, and Raiders, Garoppolo is now embracing what could be his last, best chance to define his legacy.

Insiders say he’s fully healthy and has already begun private workouts with Saints receivers including Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and tight end Juwan Johnson.

NFC South Watch Out

The move significantly impacts the NFC South landscape, with Garoppolo now squaring off against division rivals like Bryce Young (Panthers), Baker Mayfield (Bucs), and Desmond Ridder (Falcons).

Former Saints QB Drew Brees reacted to the news:

“If Jimmy stays healthy, he can make a real impact here. He’s smart, he’s accurate, and the Superdome is going to love him.”

Derek Carr gave the Saints’ salary cap a helping hand in retirement

This is very big of Derek Carr. The New Orleans Saints quarterback is giving up $30 million of the $40 million he got in a restructure with the team earlier this year, per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, having chosen to retire while dealing with an injured throwing shoulder. He was previously due $10 million as a roster bonus when the Saints restructured his contract, so the team agreed to pay him what he was already owed in exchange for a big break.

That’s a big deal. If he had wanted to, Carr could’ve played hardball and forced the Saints to pay him that $40 million while spending the season on injured reserve. Instead, he’s walking away in a clean split, and the Saints are getting a lot of salary cap relief.

So what will this look like, in the end? Carr’s salary cap hit is still $20,462,000 this year, at least until June 2. When the Saints formally process his retirement and get that $30 million back, they should be left with cap hits of about about $13,207,000 in 2025 and $35,670,000 in 2026. Then he’s off the books by 2027. He did have a salary cap hit of $69,207,000 in 2026, so that means substantial savings. We’ll find out what the real numbers are sooner or later. The point to take away from this is that Carr did the Saints a solid when he didn’t have to. That’s commendable.

$180 Million Quarterback Identified as Best Option for Saints After Derek Carr’s Retirement

The New Orleans Saints have a surprise opening in their quarterback room, and one analyst suggests a $180 million answer to fill it.

The Saints announced on May 10 that Carr decided to retire after being diagnosed with a major shoulder injury that would have required surgery and likely knocked him out for the entire 2025 season.

Carr released an emotional statement thanking those who had supported him.

“Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the National Football League,” said Carr. “For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience.”

Though Carr’s injury was already looming over the season, his retirement could now leave the Saints looking for a reliable option at quarterback. The team could turn to No. 40 overall draft pick Tyler Shough or the incumbent young quarterbacks, Spencer Rattler or Jake Haener, but Jared Dubin of CBS Sports suggests another option.

Dubin floated Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins as an option, though suggested it would need to be at the right price as the veteran quarterback’s contract is “prohibitive.” Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons last year and has a $27.5 million base salary.

Dubin also noted that Cousins may not be an ideal fit for the Saints and pulling off a trade with a division rival would have its own complications, but the team could ultimately be desperate for a steady option while Shough develops.

Insider Reveals Quarterback Replacement Saints Target After Major Derek Carr Announcement

Some interesting news struck out Saturday morning with the retirement of New Orleans Saints quarterback and 11-year NFL veteran Derek Carr.

Getting drafted out of Fresno State in the second round (36th overall), Carr compiled 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns and 112 interceptions in 169 career games.

His retirement has come at a strange time as we are right in the middle of the NFL offseason.

With this news, it’s time for the Saints to pivot and look for potential replacements for new head coach Kellen Moore.

Although the team decided to draft quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round (40th overall), there’s an obvious need for some leadership and guidance for the Saints’ quarterback room.

NFL insider for CBS Sports Jonathan Jones spoke on the new situation for the Saints and weighed-in on some possible options for them moving forward.

“Kenny Pickett played with the [Super Bowl champion] Philadelphia Eagles last year. Who was with the Eagles last year as offensive coordinator? Kellen Moore.”

“The Cleveland Browns have 4-5 quarterbacks… Joe Flacco or Kenny Pickett is going to get dealt at some point,” Jones mentioned on Saturday morning.

It’s very interesting to note that Pickett already has chemistry with the Saints’ head coach, especially after Pickett served as the backup quarterback for the Eagles while Kellen Moore helped lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl.

If this move were to happen, Pickett would be joining his fourth team in just two years – having already spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and now the Cleveland Browns – before potentially landing on a quarterback-need team like the Saints.

Pickett has 4,764 passing yards, 20 total touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 30 games played in his career.

Derek Carr’s electrifying arrival ignites New Orleans Saints’ championship hopes and silences doubters with record-breaking potential

Derek Carr’s Impact on the New Orleans Saints

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, the arrival of a new quarterback can signal a turning point for a franchise. For the New Orleans Saints, Derek Carr’s transition into the fold is not just a change under center; it represents a seismic shift in their championship aspirations. With his record-breaking potential and a determination to silence skeptics, Carr is poised to lead the Saints into a new era of competitiveness.

A New Era Begins

Derek Carr’s signing with the Saints marks a significant chapter in both his career and the team’s history. After a decade with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he established himself as a formidable quarterback, Carr sought a fresh start. The Saints, eager for a resurgence following a challenging previous season, viewed Carr not just as a player but as a catalyst for change. His leadership and experience are invaluable assets as the team aims to reclaim its status among the NFL elite.

Record-Breaking Potential

Carr’s statistics speak volumes about his capabilities. With over 35,000 passing yards and 200 touchdown passes to his name, he arrives in New Orleans with a track record that suggests he could elevate the Saints’ offensive performance. His ability to read defenses and deliver precise throws makes him a dual threat—capable of both deep passes and quick releases. This versatility could unlock the full potential of the Saints’ receiving corps, which features talented playmakers eager to thrive under Carr’s guidance.

Leadership and Influence

Beyond statistics, Carr’s influence in the locker room cannot be overstated. His work ethic and commitment to improvement resonate with teammates, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence. As he integrates into the Saints’ system, his presence is expected to inspire confidence among players, particularly younger athletes looking to carve their own paths in the league. Carr’s experience in high-pressure situations will be crucial as the Saints navigate the ups and downs of a grueling season.

Silencing the Doubters

Despite his impressive resume, Carr has faced skepticism regarding his ability to lead a team to playoff success. Critics often point to his tenure with the Raiders, where postseason victories eluded him. However, Carr’s determination to silence these doubts fuels his motivation. He has openly expressed his desire to win, not just for himself but for the city of New Orleans, a fanbase that has endured its share of heartbreak and disappointment. This shared goal of achieving greatness could galvanize the entire organization.

The Road Ahead

As the Saints prepare for the upcoming season, the synergy between Carr and head coach Dennis Allen will be pivotal. Their collaborative efforts in crafting a dynamic offensive strategy could redefine the team’s identity. With Carr at the helm, the Saints have the potential to become a formidable force in the NFC South, challenging rivals and striving for a deep playoff run.

A Promising Future

In conclusion, Derek Carr’s arrival in New Orleans is more than just a new chapter; it is a bold statement of intent. His record-breaking potential, leadership qualities, and unwavering determination to succeed position the Saints as serious contenders. As the season unfolds, the impact of Carr will be closely watched, not only for the immediate results but for the long-term legacy he could help establish in New Orleans. The promise of a brighter future is on the horizon, and the Saints are ready to seize it.