CONFIRMED: Just Days After Derek Carr’s Abrupt Retirement, Saints Sign Kenny Pickett to Four-Year, $40 Million Deal
In a shocking development that has sent tremors across the NFL world, the New Orleans Saints have moved swiftly to fill the gaping void left by Derek Carr’s sudden retirement. The franchise has officially agreed to terms with Cleveland Browns quarterback Kenny Pickett on a four-year, $40 million deal, including a staggering $34 million guaranteed.
The news comes just days after Carr, 33, announced his abrupt and unexpected retirement from professional football, citing personal reasons and a desire to focus on life beyond the gridiron. The Saints, who had built much of their offensive strategy around Carr’s veteran leadership and arm, were left scrambling for a solution. That solution has now arrived in the form of Pickett, the 2022 first-round draft pick from the University of Pittsburgh.
A Sudden End and a New Beginning
Carr’s retirement came as a bolt from the blue. Though he had struggled with consistency during the 2024 season, many expected the four-time Pro Bowler to remain under center for at least another year. His leadership, poise, and experience were viewed as stabilizing factors for a team that had recently been battling to find its post-Drew Brees identity.
With Carr stepping away, the Saints were left with limited options in a thin quarterback market—until Kenny Pickett emerged as a viable target. Pickett’s journey in Cleveland had been a rollercoaster. After being traded from the Steelers to the Browns in a surprising intra-division move, Pickett showed flashes of brilliance but was ultimately unable to establish himself as the long-term answer in Cleveland’s quarterback carousel.
New Orleans, however, sees something different.
Why Pickett? Why Now?
At just 26 years old, Kenny Pickett is entering what many believe should be the prime years of his career. Known for his athleticism, pocket awareness, and competitive edge, Pickett brings a blend of youth and starting experience that the Saints sorely needed.
Team sources revealed that head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak were impressed by Pickett’s film and upside. “Kenny has the tools, the mindset, and the work ethic we’re looking for,” said Allen in a brief press conference. “This is not just a stopgap move. We believe Kenny can lead this team for years to come.”
The structure of the deal speaks volumes about the Saints’ commitment. With $34 million guaranteed, Pickett will have financial security and the confidence of a franchise that wants him to take the reins without looking over his shoulder.
The Deal Breakdown
- Length: 4 years
- Total Value: $40 million
- Guaranteed Money: $34 million
- Signing Bonus: Estimated at $12 million
- Incentives: Performance-based bonuses for Pro Bowl selections, playoff appearances, and team wins
The contract is considered team-friendly by NFL standards, especially when compared to the massive deals being signed by elite quarterbacks. But for the Saints, it’s a strategic investment—one that allows them to retain cap flexibility while locking in a player with potential to grow.
Pickett’s Reaction and Future in the Big Easy
In his first statement as a New Orleans Saint, Pickett expressed both gratitude and excitement. “I’m honored to join a franchise with such rich history and passionate fans,” he said. “I’ve always admired the Saints’ culture, and I’m ready to get to work, earn the trust of my teammates, and bring a championship mentality to New Orleans.”
Pickett is expected to immediately take over first-team reps during OTAs and minicamp. The Saints’ offensive weapons—headlined by Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara, and a promising young offensive line—should give Pickett plenty to work with as he adapts to Kubiak’s system.
What This Means for the Saints
The signing of Pickett signals that New Orleans is not interested in rebuilding—they’re reloading. With a defense that remains among the league’s best and a fanbase hungry for postseason success, the Saints are banking on Pickett to provide stability and growth at the most important position in sports.
The move also suggests the team has no immediate plans to draft a quarterback high in the upcoming NFL Draft, though a developmental pick later on is still possible. The front office’s focus now shifts to strengthening the offensive line, bolstering depth at receiver, and making sure Pickett has all the tools he needs to succeed.
What’s Next for the Browns?
For Cleveland, the departure of Pickett raises significant questions. Though never fully embraced as the franchise quarterback, Pickett’s exit leaves a hole behind Deshaun Watson, who continues to face uncertainty surrounding health and performance. The Browns may now be in the market for a veteran backup or could look to the draft to bring in fresh talent.
Pickett’s time in Cleveland may not have gone as planned, but the Saints are betting that his best football is still ahead of him.
Final Thoughts
The NFL is often described as a league of constant change, and this week has proven just how true that is. In a matter of days, the Saints lost one starting quarterback and gained another—one who just might be the future of their franchise.
Kenny Pickett arrives in New Orleans not as a placeholder, but as a player with something to prove and a city ready to embrace him. With training camp on the horizon and expectations already building, all eyes will be on the young quarterback as he begins the next chapter of his career under the bright lights of the Superdome.
From Pittsburgh to Cleveland and now to New Orleans, Pickett’s journey continues—and the Saints are all in.
