Headline: Kenny Pickett Signs Four-Year, $40M Deal With Saints Following Derek Carr’s Sudden Retirement
In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL community, the New Orleans Saints have officially agreed to terms with former Cleveland Browns quarterback Kenny Pickett on a four-year, $40 million contract, which includes a staggering $34 million in guaranteed money. The announcement comes just days after the unexpected and abrupt retirement of veteran quarterback Derek Carr, who was set to lead the Saints into the 2025 season.
This sudden quarterback change signifies a new era for the Saints as they pivot from the steady hand of Carr to the youthful promise of Pickett, a 2022 first-round pick who showed flashes of brilliance in Cleveland. The 26-year-old quarterback, known for his poise in the pocket, athleticism, and leadership, now finds himself in the heart of the NFC South, tasked with revitalizing a franchise that has been desperately seeking stability at the quarterback position since Drew Brees’ retirement in 2021.
Derek Carr’s decision to retire caught many by surprise, especially after he had recently voiced his excitement about the upcoming season. While no official reason has been publicly stated, sources close to the situation indicate that lingering injuries and a desire to spend more time with family were significant factors in Carr’s choice to walk away from the game.
The Saints, caught off guard by Carr’s departure, moved swiftly to identify a replacement. Their top priority was securing a young, proven quarterback who could step in and lead the team immediately. Kenny Pickett, who had a strong showing in the final stretch of last season with the Browns, emerged as the perfect candidate.
Originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Pickett was traded to the Browns in a surprise move in 2024 after inconsistent play and the rise of another young quarterback in Pittsburgh. With the Browns, Pickett found new life, throwing for over 3,400 yards and 22 touchdowns with only 8 interceptions in 13 starts. His improved decision-making and command of the offense earned him praise from both analysts and teammates alike.
Now with the Saints, Pickett has an opportunity to start fresh in a system that promises to be tailored to his strengths. Head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael are reportedly excited about integrating Pickett’s mobility and accuracy into their game plan.
The acquisition of Pickett comes at a pivotal time for New Orleans. The team narrowly missed the playoffs last season and is in a division that remains wide open. With key weapons like Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara, and a strong offensive line, Pickett is stepping into one of the more favorable situations of his career.
“We’re thrilled to bring Kenny on board,” said Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis during the team’s official announcement. “He brings leadership, energy, and a winning mindset that aligns perfectly with what we’re building here.”
Pickett, for his part, expressed excitement about joining the Saints. “This is a tremendous opportunity,” he said. “I have so much respect for this organization, and I can’t wait to get to work with my new teammates and coaches. I’m ready to lead this team and bring success to New Orleans.”
The Saints’ quick and decisive action in landing Pickett shows a clear intent to remain competitive in the NFC. With minicamp just weeks away, all eyes will be on how quickly Pickett can adjust to his new team and system.
If he lives up to the potential he showed in Cleveland, the Saints may have found their quarterback of the future—one capable of leading them back to postseason prominence and perhaps even beyond.