Feb. 10, 2026, 11:12 a.m. CT

The recent speculation surrounding former New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr potentially making a return to the NFL has fans in New Orleans somewhat hopeful — and not because they’re eager to see Carr suit up for another team, but because of the reward that could come with it.

Last offseason, Carr made the decision to retire due to a shoulder injury that significantly limited his ability to throw the football. At the time, the injury appeared to be a long-term concern. However, recent reports suggest Carr’s shoulder has healed to the point where he can perform the functional movements required to throw, sparking renewed interest from teams around the league.

With several franchises still searching for stability under center, a potential Carr trade has quietly become one of the more intriguing storylines of the offseason. Still relatively young at 34, Carr could offer a steady presence for a team that believes it is ready to win now.

As teams begin to explore the possibility of adding Derek Carr, the Saints also gain an opportunity to evaluate what kind of compensation they could receive in return. Taking into account quarterback need across the league and the available draft capital of interested teams, let’s dive into a few potential trade proposals involving Carr and New Orleans:

Saints get: Pick No. 97 (3rd round compensatory)

Vikings get: Derek Carr, pick No. 189 (6th round)

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.

Saints get: Pick No. 103 (4th round), pick No. 206 (6th round)

Jets get: Derek Carr

Saints get: Pick No. 104 (4th round), pick No. 181 (6th round)

Cardinals get: Derek Carr

Saints get: Pick No. 113 (4th round), pick No. 154 (5th round)

Colts get: Derek Carr

Saints get: Pick No. 102 (4th round), pick No. 219 (7th round)

Raiders get: Carr

Each of these teams would likely have at least some level of interest in the veteran quarterback, with existing coaching ties potentially making things even more intriguing. If the Saints are able to receive compensation for Carr’s services, it would be a significant win for a franchise that has already secured two mid-round selections for wide receiver Rashid Shaheed and an additional pick following the departure of Paulson Adebo.

With eight total picks — including one inside the top 10 — New Orleans could be positioned perfectly for another strong draft class in 2026.