One major storyline that will be followed this offseason concerns the New Orleans Saints and Derek Carr. While they'd be taking on over $50 million in dead cap if released before June 1, the Saints need to make a decision on their veteran quarterback. If they designate Carr as a post-June 1 cut, they'll save $30 million in 2025 opposed to just over $1 million if released prior to that date.
The Saints need to take into account their horrid cap space situation, which is now $50 million over the limit. If they're going to rebuild, they'll need to address the quarterback situation, as backups Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener don't seem to be options for the future.
They'll likely need a bridge quarterback, but one that doesn't come with the same price tag as Carr. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report made a shocking statement, listing the Saints as a top suitor for Russell Wilson this offseason.
Wilson will likely be valued as a high-end bridge quarterback, just as Kirk Cousins was last offseason, although Wilson's slide should lead to a much more manageable contract. Teams that fell outside of the top five in the draft order—like the Jets and the Saints, if they move on from Derek Carr—could be the most interested.
Wilson was in an interesting situation with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this season, as the first six games went to Justin Fields as the starter. Once the veteran Wilson took over, he began playing like his former self in a way. He did slow down near the end of the regular season, ending 2024 with 2,482 yards and 16 touchdowns to five interceptions. It'll be interesting to see how Wilson performs in the playoffs this Saturday against the Baltimore Ravens.
If the Saints go the veteran quarterback route again, Wilson being on the list would certainly be shocking.
