Are the New Orleans Saints ready to shake up their quarterback situation? With new head coach Kellen Moore at the helm, bold moves are on the horizon that promise to reshape the team's future.
Kellen Moore, the offensive mastermind who led the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl victory, is now tasked with rejuvenating the New Orleans Saints. This transition marks a crucial moment for a franchise filled with veterans yet strapped for salary cap space. While coaching high-caliber talent in his previous roles, Moore must now innovate with a roster that lacks some of the star power he had in the past, setting the stage for a fresh approach to the New Orleans Saints QB trade landscape.
Restructuring Derek Carr's Contract
The Saints are restructuring Derek Carr's contract in a strategic move meant to free up $30.9 million in cap space for 2025. This restructuring will transform Carr’s $30 million base salary and a $10 million guaranteed roster bonus into a signing bonus, reducing his cap figure to $20.4 million. By tying Carr to the team for the 2025 season and cranking his 2026 cap figure up to $69.2 million, the Saints are clearly preparing for a potential turnover at quarterback. This necessity for a solid backup plan could signal that even if Carr starts the 2025 season, the Saints may begin planning for his succession.
Carr's inconsistency has raised questions about his long-term fit in the Saints' plans. Under Moore’s scheme, which previously thrived with mobile quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts, Carr’s traditional pocket-passing style may restrict the versatility that Moore desires. Thus, a change may soon be needed.
Targeting Dual-Threat Quarterbacks
Moore’s successful tenure with quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, Justin Herbert, and Jalen Hurts illustrates his preference for dual-threat quarterbacks in the NFL. This style of play allows for creative offensive schemes, which could exploit defenses' vulnerabilities in unique ways. To align with Moore's strategy, the Saints are eyeing Colts QB Anthony Richardson, who embodies the dual-threat profile that Moore seeks.
Richardson’s athleticism and strong arm have tantalized scouts, although he experienced growing pains during his rookie year. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, his limited experience and challenges with accuracy raise doubts about his readiness to lead an NFL offense consistently. However, this makes him a perfect candidate for Moore's revitalization efforts.
The Anthony Richardson Colts trade could be a pivotal moment for the Saints. Indianapolis is reportedly open to trading Richardson, especially after they signed Daniel Jones, creating a potential quarterback controversy. If Richardson fails to solidify his starting position, his move could happen sooner rather than later.
Why Richardson Fits the Saints' Vision
Richardson's dynamic potential aligns perfectly with the vision Kellen Moore has for the Saints’ offense. With only 13 games of college experience, the former Florida Gator is still a work in progress. However, Moore has proven skillful at developing QBs with raw talent like Richardson’s. The opportunity to work under Moore offers Richardson the chance to refine his skills while providing the Saints with a quarterback who can stretch the field with both his arm and legs.
In transitioning to a new offensive identity, the Saints would be wise to target Richardson. His agility and ability to make plays outside the pocket could elevate an offense looking to maximize its playmakers, including role players like Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave. The excitement surrounds the prospect of pairing these dynamic athletes with a quarterback who can truly execute a modern, multifaceted offensive scheme.
Preparing for the Future
Restructuring Carr’s contract coupled with seeking a trade for Richardson indicates a clear intent for the Saints to establish a solid foundation moving forward. Flexibility in the salary cap will allow the Saints to explore potential trades and free-agent signings that can amplify their roster.
Should the Saints pursue Richardson successfully, his addition would not only fill a crucial position but could also help to attract other high-profile players who see potential in the restructured New Orleans Saints. The right moves could reinvigorate a franchise eager to return to its winning ways.
Conclusion
The New Orleans Saints are at a pivotal moment as they adapt to Kellen Moore’s coaching vision. With the restructuring of Derek Carr's contract to create cap space for future movements and the potential acquisition of Anthony Richardson, the Saints may be poised for a significant transformation. Investing in a dual-threat quarterback could revitalize the team and pave the way for contention in the coming seasons. As fans anticipate this transition, one thing is clear: change is on the horizon, and the Saints are ready to make bold moves in their quest for success.