In a powerful declaration of commitment to team and city, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has officially rejected a stunning $205 million NIL-style offer from the Pittsburgh Steelers, reaffirming his loyalty to the franchise that gave him a second chance and a true football home.
According to sources close to the situation, the Steelers had proposed a groundbreaking endorsement-heavy NIL-style deal aimed at luring the veteran quarterback to Pittsburgh as part of a potential quarterback rotation and future succession plan. The offer reportedly included massive commercial incentives, ownership in branded ventures, and premium media visibility.
But Carr wasn’t swayed.
“New Orleans gave me new life, new purpose, and a new family,” Carr said in an emotional message posted to his social media. “No amount of money can replace the connection I’ve built here. My loyalty lies with the Saints forever.”
An Offer That Turned Heads
The reported $205 million NIL-style deal was set to be a hybrid of endorsement income, equity stakes in team-affiliated partnerships, and branding opportunities through national media outlets. Pittsburgh’s front office believed Carr’s leadership and experience could complement their long-term quarterback vision, and the offer was crafted with precision to appeal to both his football and off-field goals.
“Carr is the kind of player who elevates a locker room instantly,” one AFC executive said. “It was a calculated risk—one that clearly didn’t pan out.”
Despite the record-setting nature of the proposal for a player not currently in a contract year, Carr turned it down without hesitation.
A Resurgence in the Crescent City
After a decade-long run with the Las Vegas Raiders, Carr signed with the Saints in 2023 amid mixed expectations. But what unfolded was a career renaissance in the bayou. Under head coach Dennis Allen and with the support of a passionate fanbase, Carr flourished.
In 2024, he led the Saints to an NFC South title, throwing for over 4,200 yards and 29 touchdowns, guiding the team to its first playoff victory since the Drew Brees era. His chemistry with receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, combined with leadership and poise, has made him a beloved figure in New Orleans.
“He’s our guy,” Allen said. “Derek brought stability, maturity, and a winning mindset. He’s the engine of this team, and we’re thrilled he’s staying right where he belongs.”
Loyalty Over Luxury
Carr’s decision drew praise across the NFL, especially in an era where players often jump franchises for bigger paydays or broader media platforms. For Carr, it’s deeper than football.
“This city welcomed me and my family with open arms,” Carr said. “We walk these streets, we go to church here, we eat in the same spots as our fans. This isn’t just football—it’s life.”
His refusal of the Steelers’ massive offer was met with emotional reactions from Saints fans across social media. The hashtags #CarrForever and #WhoDatLoyalty began trending within minutes of the announcement.