Saints Pursue Rodgers After Carr Retires From NFL

Following the unexpected retirement of New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr due to a serious shoulder injury, there is growing speculation about the team's next move at the quarterback position. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III has strongly recommended that the Saints pursue free-agent Aaron Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP and veteran with 156 career wins, as a potential stop-gap solution while rookie Tyler Shough develops. Rodgers, who was recently released by the New York Jets and has had preliminary talks with the Pittsburgh Steelers, has not yet decided whether to retire or continue playing. The Saints now have significant salary cap space, about $30 million, which could facilitate signing Rodgers, who has indicated a willingness to play for a reduced salary. While the Saints have internal options like Shough and Spencer Rattler, bringing in Rodgers could provide valuable mentorship and immediate experience. However, some analysts argue that signing Rodgers may only delay the team's rebuild, suggesting they might be better off developing their younger quarterbacks or waiting for the 2026 draft class.