The New Orleans Saints have been rocked by stunning news: veteran quarterback Derek Carr has announced his retirement after learning he will need surgery that will sideline him for the entire 2025 season. This shocking development has thrown the Saints’ quarterback plans into disarray. Yes, the Saints drafted Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough with the 40th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but the plan was likely to have him sit and develop behind Carr. Now that it’s not an option, the Chicago Bears could take advantage and trade backup quarterback Tyson Bagent for urgent reinforcement.
#Saints QB Derek Carr is retiring, sources tell The Insiders.
Carr, 34, recently underwent multiple medical evaluations on his shoulder. Surgery was deemed the only route back to 100% and that would mean up to 6 months recovery. Carr retires rather than staying on IR all year. pic.twitter.com/L6V2PVkR7Y
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) May 10, 2025
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Saints Could Make ‘Urgent’ Trade for Bears QB Tyson Bagent
For Saints fans unfamiliar with Bagent, his story is one of remarkable perseverance and rapid rise. After going undrafted out of Division II Shepherd University, Bagent fought his way onto the Bears roster, eventually securing the QB2 role. Ever since that, he has shown resilience and flashes of promise. While his rookie stats weren’t eye-popping (859 passing yards, three touchdowns, and six interceptions), he was thrust into action earlier than expected and made the most of his opportunities in 2023. At 6’3″ and 213 pounds, the 24-year-old quarterback has the arm talent to fit the ball into tight windows and excels in the short passing game. He also has the knowledge and experience to be the Saints’ plug-and-play option as Bagent heads into his third season in the NFL.
Don’t Make the Same Mistake Again
It’s funny to think Bagent would be seen as the “mentor” to Shough, considering he’s only a year younger. But that’s the reality of the situation. Shough may have the tools to eventually become a quality NFL quarterback, but Saints fans know firsthand the risks of rushing a young signal-caller into a starting role before he’s ready. Just look at last season’s rocky experiment with Spencer Rattler. So, do the Saints start Rattler or Jake Haener, or do they look for outside help?
Most Bears fans really like Bagent, and some went as far as to say he should start over Justin Fields and Caleb Williams when they were struggling. But the point is, he would offer the Saints a good bridge for Shough to sit and develop.
Other Quarterback Options for the Saints
Aaron Rodgers is still out there. No one really knows what’s going through his mind, but he’s the top quarterback in the open market. Another name is former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Carson Wentz. The former No. 2 overall pick has bounced around the league the past few seasons but could offer immediate help for the Saints. Outside of those two, it’s relatively thin at QB on the open market. The Saints could ask the Atlanta Falcons if Kirk Cousins is available, but will probably get the in-division tax.
So if the Saints are willing to make a trade for Tyson Bagent, it might be their best bet going into next season.
Main Image: Stephen Lew – USA Today Sports
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