New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr announced his retirement from the NFL in a surprise move Saturday morning, inspiring some of his former teammates to offer their congratulations on the big decision.
Carr retires after 11 years as an NFL quarterback at the age of 34 because of an injury to his right shoulder. The Fresno State product's first nine seasons in the NFL were spent with the Oakland and Las Vegas Raiders.
He followed one of his old Raiders coaches, Dennis Allen, to the Saints ahead of the 2023 season. He was mostly effective during his time in New Orleans, but injuries hindered his play at times during his first season and he played in only 10 games in 2024 because of injuries.
Carr finishes his career with 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns and 112 touchdowns.
As some of Carr's former teammates reacted to the news of retirement, he shared some of their comments on in his Instagram account:
"Been a fan of DC for years. Glad I got to spend time time with you bro! One of the toughest to play the game. Enjoy being a full time dad." - former Saints WR Marques Valdes-Scantling
"Congrats on an incredible career. DC Best of luck to you and the family moving forward." - Broncos QB Jarrett Stidham, who played with Carr with the Raiders
"Enjoy retirement and the family." - Johnathan Abram, former Saints safety
"Welcome to retirement brotha. I can't wait to see what's next!! Let's get you on the racetrack." - Jon Feliciano, a former Raiders offensive lineman
"Great Career Brother Thank You For Everything." - Saints TE Foster Moreau
"Congrats (Derek Carr), was a pleasure playing with you and experiencing the authentic man and father you are!" - Former Saints offensive lineman Lucas Patrick
"Congrats on a great career (Derek Carr)!!! Delivered my first TD in the league. It's golf time nowwwww!!" - Brice Butler, former Raiders WR