Retired Pro Bowl quarterback Derek Carr, who announced his retirement in May 2025, has stated that multiple NFL teams have contacted him this offseason regarding a potential comeback.
Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler who spent 11 seasons in the league, revealed the interest during a recent appearance on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football." He noted that the teams were "good, solid football teams" and were "gauging my interest on what I wanted to do."
While not definitively ruling out a return, Carr emphasized that any comeback would require a "special situation." His primary motivation for returning would be the opportunity to win. "So if I were to do it, it would have to be a special team that maybe lost somebody or needed somebody, but even then, it's not guaranteed," Carr said.
Carr, 35, indicated that he is currently enjoying his time away from the game, focusing on his family and hobbies. "I'm having too much fun hanging out with my wife, hanging out with my kids, and trying to get good at golf. So it would take a special deal," he stated.
Despite his retirement, Carr mentioned he remains in shape and continues to train. The New Orleans Saints still hold his contract rights, as they signed him to a four-year, $150 million deal in 2023. This would necessitate a trade for any team looking to acquire him. The Saints drafted quarterback Tyler Shough in the 2025 NFL draft, suggesting they might be open to facilitating a move if Shough performs well.
Carr's last season was impacted by injuries. In March 2025, he experienced pain in his right shoulder, later diagnosed as a labral tear with significant degenerative changes to his rotator cuff. While surgery was considered, there was no guarantee of a full return to his previous performance level. His 2024 season was cut short after sustaining a concussion and a left hand injury in a game against the New York Giants.
In his final season, Carr played 10 games, completing 67.7% of his passes for 2,145 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions. The Saints had a 5-5 record in games he started.
Over his 169 career regular season games, Carr holds a record of 77-92, with a 65.1% completion percentage. He has thrown for 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions. He played nine seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders before joining the Saints.