In a surprising twist, Derek Carr retired from the NFL last week, but not before exploring opportunities to continue his career outside New Orleans.
Sources including ESPN's Katherine Terrell and Jeremy Fowler revealed that a representative of Carr spoke to at least two NFL teams to gauge interest in the veteran quarterback. These indirect conversations signaled Carr's openness to consider new avenues with different teams.
However, these talks faced immediate hurdles. The lack of formal permission from the New Orleans Saints, as mandated by NFL regulations, meant Carr's representatives had to tread carefully. Moreover, the heavy financial commitments tied to Carr, including a $30 million guaranteed salary and a $10 million roster bonus, deterred potential suitors.
Complicating matters further were significant health concerns. Reports of a torn right labrum and degenerative changes to his rotator cuff ultimately contributed to Carr's decision to retire.
From the Saints' perspective, the parting may have been welcomed. A new era under coach Kellen Moore had begun, and with little rapport with Carr, Moore showed ambivalence about Carr leading the team in 2025. ESPN indicated that Moore had never met Carr face-to-face, underscoring the disconnect.
For now, Carr is choosing family time over football as he steps away without undergoing surgery. Meanwhile, the Saints are charting a new path, testing their future with second-round draft pick Tyler Shough among the contenders for the starting quarterback role.
