After a polarizing 11-year career, Derek Carr has decided to retire from the NFL. The New Orleans Saints announced the news on Saturday.
While he's retiring as a Saint, Carr will most likely be remembered for his time with the Las Vegas Raiders. He was a second-round pick of the team in 2014 and quickly earned the starting job. He didn't let go until the end of his ninth season.
When the Raiders hired Jon Gruden in 2018, it seemed like a matter of time before he made a change at quarterback. However, Gruden eventually was all-in on Carr, and Las Vegas didn't draft a single quarterback during the coach's tenure with the team.
jon gruden derek carr
Jon Gruden with Derek Carr.
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The two formed a very strong relationship in Las Vegas. Gruden had a message for Carr following the retirement news.
"Congratulations on a great career. You showcased incredible mental toughness and preparation for over a decade. I love you and enjoyed our time. Keep shredding!" Gruden wrote on X.
Gruden helped Carr become the most prolific passer in Raiders history. Though the duo never played in a playoff game together, they were stabilizing forces for the Raiders for a couple of years.
At 34, Carr likely could've played for several more seasons, but the shoulder surgery he would've had to get to keep playing could've had long-term ramifications. Carr rarely missed time in his career, but playing through all those injuries eventually caught up with him.
Carr is young enough to where a comeback in a year or two isn't impossible, but it seems highly unlikely.