Derek Carr’s Potential Return to NFL Remains Uncertain
Despite some speculation, the response around the league regarding former Saints quarterback Derek Carr’s potential return has been lukewarm. According to a report from Pro Football Talk, interest hasn’t really picked up as of Saturday evening.
Carr, a seasoned player at 34 and a four-time Pro Bowler, announced his retirement following the 2024 season due to a shoulder injury. However, he expressed intentions in mid-February to give it another shot, aiming for a chance at the Super Bowl.
“Would I do it? Yes. Would I do it for someone else? Absolutely not,” Carr mentioned on his podcast. He added that staying healthy is crucial, and he really wants a shot at the championship, acknowledging the challenges involved.
He suggested that he’s feeling fit again and has turned down several opportunities that didn’t align with his ambitions.
“I’ve had to say no several times,” he stated, implying that he’s selective about any future opportunities.
Interestingly, Carr still has contractual obligations with the Saints and is listed among their retired players, which means any interested teams would need to negotiate a trade.
During his career, the Fresno State graduate has only made the playoffs twice, both times with the Raiders. Unfortunately, he missed the 2016 Wild Card round due to a broken foot and faced the Bengals in a losing effort in the 2021 season opener.
As free agency progresses, several teams have already secured their quarterback positions, such as the Dolphins with Malik Willis, the Jets bringing in Geno Smith, the Vikings adding Kyler Murray, and the Falcons acquiring Tua Tagovailoa.
Currently, the Raiders seem likely to draft Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the top pick, leaving only the Steelers and Cardinals in search of a starting quarterback.
Carr might pique Pittsburgh’s interest if Aaron Rodgers departs during free agency or if the Steelers opt not to select a quarterback, like Alabama’s Ty Simpson, in the draft.
However, the most plausible scenario for Carr’s return appears to hinge on a starting quarterback from a contending team getting injured. This could mirror Philip Rivers stepping in for the Colts when Daniel Jones suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon.
In his last season, Carr led the Saints to an even record of 5-5, throwing for 2,145 yards with a completion rate of 67.7%, alongside 15 touchdowns and five interceptions before injuries sidelined him. He first began feeling discomfort in his shoulder while prepping for the 2025 season.
