saints depth chart

Saints Quarterback Conundrum: Projecting the 2025 Depth Chart and Beyond

The New Orleans Saints find themselves in an intriguing position heading into the 2025 NFL season, particularly regarding their quarterback situation. With the 2025 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, the Saints' quarterback depth chart has become a hot topic of discussion, fueled by both surprise and speculation. Let's dive into the projected depth chart, explore the surrounding buzz, and analyze what the future might hold for the Saints' signal-callers.

Recent Draft Shakes Up the Quarterback Room

The Saints' selection of quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft has sent ripples throughout the league. An NFL executive confirmed suspicions surrounding the pick, as reported by A to Z Sports, adding intrigue to the Saints' quarterback plans. While details remain scarce, the selection itself suggests the Saints are looking towards the future.

Adding to the speculation, Saints Wire highlighted what head coach Kellen Moore might like about Shough, citing an ESPN article. While specifics weren't provided, the interest from Moore indicates Shough possesses traits that fit the offensive scheme.

CBS Sports even predicted that Shough could make a push for Offensive Rookie of the Year, while also suggesting Will Howard, drafted by the Steelers, could see starting time. This bold prediction underscores the potential impact Shough could have on the Saints' season.

Projecting the Saints' 2025 Quarterback Depth Chart

While projecting a depth chart this early is inherently speculative, we can piece together a likely scenario based on current information and past trends. Keep in mind that this is an estimation and subject to change based on training camp performance, injuries, and other unforeseen circumstances.

1. Derek Carr: Despite some early rumors, Derek Carr is expected to remain the starter for the 2025 season. His experience and contract likely solidify his position, at least to begin the year.

2. Tyler Shough: The second-round pick is likely to be the primary backup and the quarterback of the future. The Saints will likely groom him behind Carr, hoping he develops into a franchise quarterback.

3. Jake Haener: Haener, a 2023 fourth-round pick, provides additional depth and competition. He'll need to impress in training camp to secure his spot on the roster.

It's important to note that this projected depth chart is based on the assumption that Derek Carr will remain the starter. However, the selection of Shough certainly adds pressure and raises questions about Carr's long-term future with the team.

Contextual Background: A History of Quarterback Carousel

The Saints have had a mixed history at the quarterback position in the post-Drew Brees era. After Brees's retirement, the team has been searching for a long-term solution. The signing of Derek Carr was intended to provide stability, but the selection of Tyler Shough signals a potential shift in strategy. The Saints may be looking to develop a quarterback from within, rather than relying solely on veteran acquisitions.

Immediate Effects: Increased Competition and Fan Excitement

The immediate effect of drafting Shough is increased competition at the quarterback position. Carr will be looking to solidify his role as the starter, while Shough will be eager to prove his worth. This competition should, in theory, elevate the play of both quarterbacks.

Furthermore, the selection of Shough has generated excitement among Saints fans. The prospect of a young, talented quarterback developing under the tutelage of Carr is an appealing one. Fans are eager to see what Shough can bring to the team and whether he can be the future of the franchise.

Future Outlook: Potential Outcomes and Strategic Implications

The future outlook for the Saints' quarterback situation is uncertain, but several potential outcomes exist:

• Carr Succeeds, Shough Develops: In this scenario, Carr plays well and leads the Saints to success, while Shough continues to develop behind the scenes. This would be the ideal outcome for the Saints, as it would provide both short-term success and long-term stability.
• Carr Struggles, Shough Steps Up: If Carr struggles, the Saints may turn to Shough to provide a spark. If Shough performs well, he could seize the starting role and become the franchise quarterback.
• Shough Disappoints: It's also possible that Shough doesn't develop as hoped. In this case, the Saints would need to re-evaluate their quarterback situation and potentially look to the draft or free agency for another solution.

The Saints' strategy moving forward will likely depend on Carr's performance and Shough's development. If Carr plays well, the Saints may be content to let Shough develop slowly. However, if Carr struggles, the Saints may be more aggressive in pushing Shough into the starting role.

The Retirement That Wasn't: Derek Carr's Non-Retirement and its Impact

Early in the 2025 offseason, the rumor mill churned with reports of Derek Carr's potential retirement. While these reports ultimately proved false, they underscore the volatility and uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position.

Had Carr retired, the Saints' quarterback depth chart would have been thrown into chaos. Tyler Shough would have been thrust into the starting role prematurely, and the Saints would have been forced to scramble for a veteran backup.

Ultimately, Carr's decision to continue playing provided the Saints with much-needed stability. However, the retirement rumors serve as a reminder that anything can happen in the NFL, and the Saints must be prepared for all possibilities.

Salary Cap Implications and the Quarterback Position

The quarterback position is the most expensive in the NFL, and the Saints must carefully manage their salary cap to ensure they can afford quality players at other positions. Derek Carr's contract carries a significant cap hit, and the Saints must weigh the cost of keeping him against the potential benefits of moving on.

Tyler Shough's rookie contract provides the Saints with some financial flexibility. However, if Shough develops into a star, the Saints will eventually need to pay him a lucrative contract extension.

The Saints' salary cap situation will play a significant role in their quarterback decisions moving forward. They must find a way to balance the cost of the quarterback position with the need to build a competitive roster.

Ourlads.com: A Respected Source for NFL Depth Charts

For NFL fans, media, and scouts, Ourlads.com is a respected source for NFL Draft information and accurate depth charts. While not official, Ourlads.com provides valuable insights into team rosters and potential player rankings. Keep an eye on their updated Saints depth chart for further analysis.

Beyond the Depth Chart: Building a Complete Team

While the quarterback position is crucial, it's important to remember that football is a team sport. The Saints must build a strong supporting cast around their quarterback to maximize their chances of success.

This includes a reliable offensive line, talented wide receivers, and a dominant defense. The Saints must also have a strong coaching staff that can develop players and implement effective game plans.

Ultimately, the Saints' success will depend on their ability to build a complete team, not just find a franchise quarterback.

Saints' Quarterback Room: A Constantly Evolving Story

The New Orleans Saints' quarterback situation is a constantly evolving story. The drafting of Tyler Shough has added a new chapter to this story, and the coming months will be crucial in determining the future of the position.

Whether Derek Carr remains the starter, Tyler Shough emerges as the franchise quarterback, or another solution is found, the Saints' quarterback situation will be a key storyline to watch in the 2025 NFL season and beyond. The team's success hinges on making the right decisions and developing the talent they have in the quarterback room. Only time will tell how this intriguing narrative unfolds.