The New Orleans Saints are entering a new era with Kellen Moore. After an underwhelming 5-12 season, which saw the firing of Dennis Allen and a lackluster offensive performance, Moore’s hiring signals a shift toward an offensive-driven philosophy. With Moore known for his creative and high-tempo schemes, the Saints’ roster is in for a major evaluation.
The big question is: Who fits into Kellen Moore’s system, and who could be on their way out? Let’s break down which offensive players might thrive under Moore, who could struggle, and what changes might happen.
Quarterback: Is Derek Carr the Guy?
The most pressing question is at the quarterback position. Derek Carr is under contract for 2025, but his $51.4 million cap hit looms large over the Saints’ salary cap situation. Reports before Moore’s hiring suggested he might not be thrilled with the Saints’ quarterback situation, which could trouble Carr’s future in New Orleans.
Moore’s system thrives on quick decision-making, pre-snap adjustments, and an efficient passing attack. Carr, while experienced, struggled with consistency in 2024 and was hampered by injuries.
Carr’s Options:
- Stay and restructure – Carr could agree to a contract restructure, making his cap hit more manageable while giving Moore a veteran quarterback to build around.
- Post-June 1 release – Cutting Carr after June 1 would save $30 million in cap space but leave the Saints without a clear successor.
- Trade possibility – While unlikely due to his contract, a trade could become an option if another team is desperate for a veteran QB.
If Moore decides Carr isn’t the guy, the Saints could look to Spencer Rattler or Jake Haener, though neither has proven they can be a franchise quarterback. The team could also explore drafting a quarterback like Jaxson Dart, Kyle McCord, or Jalen Milroe if they choose to reset at the position.
🔹 Verdict: Carr’s future is uncertain, but if he stays, he must prove he can adapt to Moore’s offensive philosophy.
Running Back: Does Alvin Kamara Fit?
With better play calling, Alvin Kamara proved that he’s still a viable option to count on for the Saints offense. The former third-round selection was on the verge of reaching his first-ever 1,000-yard campaign as an NFL running back until his season was cut short because of a groin injury suffered against the Washington Commanders. Despite not being able to finish the season, Kamara showed that with efficient play calling, he can still be a dangerous matchup for opposing defenses. However, he is 29, and the Saints need to determine if Kendre Miller is the right player to pair with him.
Moore’s offense has typically leaned on running backs who excel in outside-zone running schemes and receiving roles—both of which Kamara has excelled at in the past. However, his declining efficiency raises concerns about whether he can remain a feature in this system.
Kendre Miller is an intriguing option for Moore. A younger back with fresh legs, Miller could carve out a bigger role, especially if Kamara’s production dips. But staying on the field has been Miller’s biggest problem. He has missed significant playing time in both his two seasons in the league. The Saints could also add another back via the draft, with prospects like TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State) or Ashton Jeanty (Boise State) as possible fits.
🔹 Verdict: Kamara is likely safe for 2025, but his role could shift in Moore’s offense, with Miller getting more opportunities.
Wide Receivers: Who Thrives Under Moore?
Chris Olave: The Star in the Making
Chris Olave is the best wide receiver on the Saints’ roster, and his route-running and speed make him a perfect fit for Moore’s passing attack. Expect Moore to feature Olave heavily, moving him around in formations and taking advantage of his ability to create separation downfield.
Rashid Shaheed: The Deep Threat
Shaheed’s big-play ability makes him an exciting weapon for Moore’s offense. Moore’s system thrives on stretching defenses vertically, which aligns perfectly with Shaheed’s skill set. Assuming he stays healthy, he could have a breakout year in 2025.
Marquez Valdez-Scantling: Time to Move On?
New Orleans signed Marquez Valdez-Scantling after a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills. The move addressed a glaring hole in the wide receiver position. Both Olave and Shaheed were gone for the season due to injuries. That’s when MVS was added to the mix for New Orleans. For a three-game stretch, MVS energized a Saints passing offense that had become nonexistent during the team’s seven-game losing streak.
To close the season, Valdez-Scantling caught 19 passes for 411 yards and four touchdowns. The former Chiefs and Bills wide receiver could have money suitors when the free agency period kicks off in March. While his numbers may not command a top-10 receiver salary, his price tag may be too deep for the Saints to match.
🔹 Verdict: Olave and Shaheed fit perfectly in Moore’s system, while Valdez-Scantling is likely on his way out. The Saints could target another receiver in the draft.
Tight Ends: The Key to Moore’s Offense?
Tight end play is one of the most critical components of Kellen Moore’s offense. During his time in Dallas, he utilized Dalton Schultz effectively, and in Philadelphia, he had Dallas Goedert as a key piece.
The Saints don’t have a proven pass-catching tight end so that this position could be a focus in the offseason. Juwan Johnson has shown flashes, but he’s not consistent enough to be the primary weapon. Foster Moreau is more of a blocker, and Taysom Hill’s future is unclear due to his high cap hit.
Expect the Saints to target a pass-catching tight end in free agency or the draft. Tyler Warren (Penn State) is a name to watch in the draft.
🔹 Verdict: The Saints need a true No. 1 tight end to maximize Moore’s scheme.
Offensive Line: Major Upgrades Needed
According to Pro Football Network, the Saints’ offensive line was one of their biggest weaknesses in 2024, ranking 23rd in OL efficiency. Injuries played a role, but even when healthy, the unit struggled.
Who’s Safe?
- Taliese Fuaga is expected to develop into a cornerstone piece on the Saints offensive line.
- Erik McCoy is still one of the more reliable centers when available.
- Cesar Ruiz– Until New Orleans finds another viable option at guard to outperform him, he will remain a key fixture upfront.
Who Could Go?
- Trevor Penning – The Saints have been patient, but he hasn’t lived up to expectations.
- Ryan Ramczyk is a veteran presence, but injuries have drastically changed the trajectory of his career. Retirement is likely in the cards for the former first-round selection based on how his contract was reworked.
To reinforce their line, the Saints could target Charles Grant (William & Mary), Tate Ratledge (Georgia), Will Campbell (LSU), or Jager Burton (Kentucky) in the draft.
🔹 Verdict: The Saints need to invest in OL upgrades to give Moore’s offense a real chance to succeed.
Final Thoughts: A New-Look Offense in 2025
Kellen Moore’s hiring excites a Saints team desperately needing a new offensive identity. However, major changes are coming:
🔥 Projected Moves 🔥
✅ Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed will thrive in Moore’s system.
✅ Alvin Kamara may see a reduced role, with Kendre Miller getting more touches.
✅ Derek Carr’s future is uncertain—could be cut or restructured.
✅ The offensive line needs major upgrades.
✅ Tight end will be a key focus in free agency or the draft.
While Moore’s system has proven successful, he needs the right personnel to execute it. The Saints’ front office must make crucial decisions on who stays and who goes to ensure Moore has the best chance to bring New Orleans back to offensive dominance.
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