The New York Giants’ quarterback situation remains fluid, and recent developments involving Derek Carr could lead to an early shake-up, including the possible trade of a well-known veteran.
Following Carr’s announcement that he is retiring from the NFL, Giants beat writer Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News suggested that Jameis Winston could be traded to the New Orleans Saints. Leonard argued that Winston no longer fits the Giants’ roster and that a move to New Orleans would be logical.
This suggestion came after NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported on Saturday, May 10, that Carr, 34, has decided to retire rather than undergo shoulder surgery, which would require up to six months of recovery and keep him on injured reserve for the season.
The New York Giants may need to reconsider their quarterback plans in light of Derek Carr’s retirement, which has led to suggestions they trade veteran Jameis Winston to the New Orleans Saints. Pat Leonard of the *New York Daily News* proposed the move, arguing Winston no longer fits the Giants’ roster after Carr’s exit leaves the Saints in need of a seasoned quarterback.
Carr’s retirement, confirmed by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo on May 10, comes after shoulder issues that would have required surgery and a six-month recovery. Ironically, Carr suffered the injury during a game against the Giants in Week 14 last season.
Winston, who joined the Giants in late March, previously spent four years with the Saints (2020–2023). While his familiarity with New Orleans makes the trade logical, Winston still holds value for the Giants. He revitalized his career in Cleveland last season, helping the Browns secure key wins and showcasing his downfield passing skills—something that aligns with the vertical style preferred by the Giants’ quarterback group, which includes Russell Wilson and rookie Jaxson Dart.
Despite Winston’s potential value as a backup and mentor, especially considering Wilson’s inconsistent past and the team’s desire to develop Dart slowly, the Giants’ overall quarterback strategy is drawing mixed reactions. Some analysts question why the team traded back into the first round to draft Dart when they already had Wilson, Winston, and Tommy DeVito. Others argue the depth gives them flexibility and stability at the position for the next couple of years.
Dart has already impressed during rookie minicamp, which could influence how soon he sees the field, despite initial plans for a redshirt year.