Saints QB ready to 'rejuvenate' career in New Orleans

After the Raiders released quarterback Derek Carr in February, he's ready to hit the reset button in New Orleans.

"I think being in this building has rejuvenated me," Carr said in a Tuesday news conference. "I never wanted to leave Las Vegas, but when I walked into this building after the last couple of months, I'm like, man, I'm glad I'm here."

In nine seasons with the Raiders, Carr, 31, became the franchise's passing TD leader (217) and made four Pro Bowls. Yet Las Vegas moved on since he hasn't won a playoff game and tied a career-high 14 interceptions last season.

New Orleans, who signed Carr to a four-year, $37.5M deal, could be a great place to start the next chapter of his career. He already knows head coach Dennis Allen. When Allen was Raiders HC, he drafted Carr in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. 

The Saints also have a budding star in second-year wideout Chris Olave. During his rookie season, the 22-year-old caught 72 passes for 1,042 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games.

If Olave and Carr develop a connection, they could jolt a Saints offense that needs juice after finishing 22nd in scoring last season.

Plus, Carr joins a team that might be the best in its division. Per OddsChecker, New Orleans holds the best odds of winning the NFC South.  

Carr's ending in Las Vegas was disappointing, but he's in the right position to revitalize his career. If he leads the Saints to their first playoff appearance since 2020, he will endear himself to New Orleans.