Derek Kerr’s unexpected retirement is likely to speed up the journeys of Saints and Tyler Schaff.
The rookie draft pick is now in a competitive race for the starting quarterback position in New Orleans, alongside Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener.
At 34 years old, Kerr announced his retirement on Saturday, citing an injured right shoulder. The Saints disclosed that the 11-year NFL veteran is dealing with a lacerated lip and a “significant change in his rotator cuff.”
“Over the past 11 years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate and deeply grateful for this journey,” Kerr expressed in a statement. “Finding the right words to thank my teammates, coaches, management, ownership, and especially our dedicated fans is a challenge. Your unwavering support means everything to us.”
The Saints selected Schaff from Louisville as their 40th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, following first-round selections of Cam Ward and Jackson Dart before making him the third quarterback chosen.
“I really believed that adding another quarterback to the mix was necessary under any circumstances,” said Saints head coach Kellen Moore on Saturday. He added that all three quarterbacks will compete for the starting role. “Each of them will have their chance.”
“We’re letting Jake, Spencer, and Tyler go through this process together. Patience is key; we want these guys to compete in training camps, and I trust that the competition will naturally sort itself out,” he noted.
Schaff, who last season threw for 3,195 yards with 23 touchdowns and six interceptions at Louisville, learned of Kerr’s retirement early on Saturday morning.
“I see this as an opportunity within any position. Everyone on the roster will expect me to keep improving and contribute positively to the quarterback group,” Schaff mentioned.
Rattler, drafted fifth in 2024, started six games (all losses) for the Saints last season, with Kerr pitching in with four touchdown passes and five interceptions. Haener, selected in 2023, also started one game last season.
