Saints QB Derek Carr reveals why he passed on the Jets in 2023 offseason

After nine seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, Derek Carr changed teams in the 2023 offseason for the first time, signing with the New Orleans Saints as a free agent following his release. Carr was a hot commodity due to his performances in Las Vegas - but especially for the fact that he was available for free.

More than one year after making the decision, Carr spoke on his recent "Pardon My Take" podcast appearance, not about the team he joined - but the team he decided not to sign for. The quarterback was asked why he decided not to play for the New York Jets, who were publicly interested in his services, and he was candid in his answer:

“I could’ve [signed with the Jets], it just wasn’t the right time for me. There was still, like, four or five teams I had to hear from. I remember sitting there with Saleh, and he’s like, ‘Look, man, we’d love to have you. It’s up to you.'

"The thing that was different in that situation was Aaron is a nine billion-time MVP, right? But you still have to trade for him, whereas I’m free, and you can still keep those picks. I was not asking for as much money as whatever they say your market is. I was like, ‘I don’t want to do that, because wherever I go, man, I just want to win. So use the money. I don’t care.

Carr signed a four-year, $150 million contract with the Saints in 2023, leading the team to a 9-8 record in 2023. The Jets ended up with Aaron Rodgers instead.

How was Derek Carr for the Saints in his first season?

Although he led the team to a great season finish, it was clear that he struggled for most of the year and only ended with a positive record due to the easy schedule at the end of the year.

New Orleans isn't exactly regretting the deal, but they're paying a quarterback to play at a top level and he's not doing so. 2024 has to be a turnaround season for the quarterback and the Saints - otherwise, the fallout could be massive.