Drew Brees Sends Clear Message on Saints QB Derek Carr: A Vision for the Future
Drew Brees, the legendary quarterback who led the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl championship and redefined the quarterback position for the franchise, has finally broken his silence regarding the current situation of the Saints’ quarterback position. His words came as a welcome insight into the team’s future, particularly on the much-discussed presence of Derek Carr under center. With the Saints still searching for long-term success at quarterback since Brees’ retirement after the 2020 season, the former Saints icon has shared his thoughts on Carr’s potential and how he fits into the franchise’s vision moving forward.
Brees, who spent 15 seasons with the Saints and became the NFL’s all-time passing yards leader during his illustrious career, was recently asked about Carr, who has spent the past year in New Orleans after being traded to the Saints by the Las Vegas Raiders. While the jury is still out on Carr’s performance and potential as the team’s long-term solution at quarterback, Brees’ candid comments are certain to spark further conversation about the future of the franchise.
Brees Reflects on the Quarterback Transition
Drew Brees’ retirement left a massive void in the Saints’ quarterback position, and since then, the team has cycled through various quarterbacks, including Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and now Derek Carr. None of these quarterbacks have been able to replicate Brees’ level of success or consistency, which has led to widespread speculation about the team’s future at the most important position in football.
The Saints’ decision to bring in Carr was seen as a major shift in the team’s approach to finding a long-term quarterback. Carr, who was drafted by the Raiders in 2014 and spent nine seasons with the team, was seen as a potential solution for a team that needed stability under center. The Saints believed Carr’s experience, combined with his strong arm and leadership qualities, would allow him to thrive in a system that has long been built around a future Hall of Fame quarterback.
However, while Carr showed flashes of promise during the 2024 season, his performance was inconsistent, and questions about his ability to lead the team to the next level lingered. As a result, Brees’ comments on Carr have become highly anticipated, with fans and analysts alike eager to hear what the franchise’s greatest quarterback thinks of the current situation.
Brees’ Clear Message on Carr’s Potential
Speaking during an interview earlier this week, Brees acknowledged the challenges Carr has faced since arriving in New Orleans, particularly given the immense shadow cast by Brees’ success. Brees emphasized the importance of patience when it comes to evaluating Carr’s performance, noting that it takes time for any quarterback to truly adjust to a new system, particularly after spending nearly a decade in a different organization.
“Look, I know what it’s like to come into a new environment and have to adapt,” Brees said. “I think Derek has all the tools necessary to succeed in New Orleans. He has a strong arm, the ability to read defenses, and most importantly, he’s shown leadership in the locker room. There’s no question that he can be the guy for the Saints. But like any quarterback, it takes time to mesh with a new system, new teammates, and a different culture. I believe Derek can thrive here. I’m optimistic about what’s to come.”
Brees also made it clear that he has confidence in Carr’s ability to grow and improve, especially under the guidance of head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael. Brees himself had his share of ups and downs during his early years with the Saints before fully cementing his legacy as one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history. He compared Carr’s transition to his own early struggles in New Orleans, offering words of encouragement to the current starting quarterback.
“I remember the first few years in New Orleans weren’t perfect. It took time to find my rhythm,” Brees continued. “But the key is consistency, getting better every year, and surrounding yourself with great players. Derek has the ability to do that. The Saints have a strong roster, and they have the leadership in place to help him succeed.”
The Bigger Picture: The Saints’ Quest for Stability
Brees’ comments reflect a larger narrative surrounding the Saints’ search for stability at quarterback. While Carr has certainly shown potential, the organization has yet to see the level of sustained success that made Brees one of the most decorated quarterbacks in NFL history. Since Brees’ retirement, the Saints have found themselves in a transitional phase, trying to find the right balance between a veteran leader and the next great quarterback.
Carr’s performance in the 2024 season raised questions, but it also showed that the team’s struggles may not solely lie with the quarterback position. While Carr has the talent and experience to be successful in the NFL, the Saints’ roster has undergone changes, and the offensive line’s inconsistency has certainly been a factor in Carr’s less-than-ideal performance. In addition, the Saints have also dealt with injury issues at key positions, including running back Alvin Kamara and wide receiver Michael Thomas, which has hindered the offense’s ability to find rhythm.
Brees acknowledged that the Saints need to focus on more than just the quarterback position in order to get back to the top of the NFC South and make another playoff push. He highlighted the importance of building a balanced team that can support Carr and allow him to thrive. Brees expressed confidence in the Saints’ defense and in the team’s ability to improve on both sides of the ball.
“The Saints have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball,” Brees said. “The defense is one of the best in the league, and with the right pieces on offense, I believe the Saints can contend for a championship. Derek needs that support from the entire team, especially with his protection and playmakers around him.”
Carr’s Future in New Orleans
Despite Brees’ optimism, it remains to be seen whether Carr will be able to fully realize his potential with the Saints. Carr signed a four-year, $150 million deal with the team in 2024, and there are high expectations for him to lead the offense to success in the coming years. However, if the 2025 season doesn’t yield the desired results, the organization may find itself reevaluating its quarterback situation once again.
One of the key factors for Carr will be his ability to develop chemistry with his teammates, particularly his wide receivers. Michael Thomas has battled injuries for much of his career, but when healthy, he remains one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL. The Saints also boast promising young talent like Chris Olave, who had an impressive rookie season in 2023. Carr’s ability to connect with these playmakers and create a dynamic passing attack will be critical to his success.
Additionally, the Saints’ ability to bolster their offensive line and running game will be essential for Carr’s development. The offensive line struggled with consistency in 2024, and injuries to key players like left tackle Trevor Penning didn’t help matters. If the Saints can solidify their offensive line and establish a stronger running game, Carr will have the tools necessary to excel.
The Saints’ Long-Term Vision
Brees’ comments also touched on the larger vision for the future of the Saints. He emphasized that the team needs to continue developing its young talent, particularly on the offensive side of the ball, while also staying competitive on defense. He believes the team’s current roster has the potential to make a deep playoff run, but it will require growth from the quarterback position and support from the entire team.
“I see a bright future for this team,” Brees said. “With Derek under center and the right pieces around him, the Saints can get back to competing for championships. The key is consistency, and Derek has the ability to lead this team. I’m excited to see what he can do.”
As the 2025 season approaches, it’s clear that Derek Carr’s future with the New Orleans Saints will be one of the most closely watched storylines in the NFL. With Drew Brees offering his endorsement and emphasizing the importance of patience, Carr has the support of one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. Now, it’s up to Carr to prove that he can live up to the lofty expectations and help lead the Saints back to championship contention.
In the end, the quarterback position will remain the focal point for the Saints as they continue their journey into the post-Brees era. Whether Carr can be the answer remains to be seen, but Brees’ message of belief and support sends a powerful signal to both Carr and the Saints’ fanbase. The road ahead may be challenging, but with the right pieces in place, the future remains bright for New Orleans.
