The New Orleans Saints have a surprise opening in their quarterback room, and one analyst suggests a $180 million answer to fill it.
The Saints announced on May 10 that Carr decided to retire after being diagnosed with a major shoulder injury that would have required surgery and likely knocked him out for the entire 2025 season.
Carr released an emotional statement thanking those who had supported him.
"Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I've decided to retire from the National Football League," said Carr. "For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience."
Though Carr's injury was already looming over the season, his retirement could now leave the Saints looking for a reliable option at quarterback. The team could turn to No. 40 overall draft pick Tyler Shough or the incumbent young quarterbacks, Spencer Rattler or Jake Haener, but Jared Dubin of CBS Sports suggests another option.
Dubin floated Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins as an option, though suggested it would need to be at the right price as the veteran quarterback's contract is "prohibitive." Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons last year and has a $27.5 million base salary.
Dubin also noted that Cousins may not be an ideal fit for the Saints and pulling off a trade with a division rival would have its own complications, but the team could ultimately be desperate for a steady option while Shough develops.