Things were getting weird with Derek Carr and the New Orleans Saints this offseason after it was revealed that the quarterback could need shoulder surgery. Carr has never had such a serious injury in his NFL career, and surgery was likely going to knock him out for the 2025 season.
It looks like he'd prefer to walk away than get the surgery. Carr and the Saints announced on social media that he has decided to retire from the NFL.
“Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the National Football League,” Carr said in a statement. “For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience. It’s difficult to find the right words to express our thanks to all the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, team officials and especially the fans who made this journey so special. Your unwavering support has meant the world to us.”
derek carr
Former Las Vegas Raiders QB Derek Carr.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The former Pro Bowl quarterback is only 34 and is walking away from $30 million guaranteed. However, the Saints aren't going to try to recoup the $10 million roster bonus they recently gave him.
Carr only spent a brief time with the Saints and will always be remembered as a Las Vegas Raider. He's the most prolific passer in franchise history, having thrown for more completions, passing yards and passing touchdowns than any other quarterback to wear the silver and black.
Considering he's under contract with the Saints, he can't retire as a Raider, but he'll likely reconnect with the franchise in some way.