Teams everywhere are looking for upgrades at the quarterback position, and Derek Carr could be in play for a needy organization. A second-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, the Fresno State product spent most of his career with the Las Vegas Raiders but joined the Saints in 2023. After two seasons in the Big Easy, the quarterback retired in 2025 after a shoulder injury kept him from suiting up for a sizable chunk of time.
After sitting out the season, Carr is reportedly healthy and hoping to continue his NFL career. However, it won’t be with the New Orleans Saints, as they have a promising young quarterback in second-round pick Tyler Shough. Carr has never been an elite quarterback, but he’s a solid enough starter who should find some interest on the trade market. The Saints still own his rights, but they’d probably be willing to trade him to one of the following teams for a minimal return.
Quarterback Derek Carr Eyes NFL Return, Saints Must Trade Him
Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa is technically still a member of the Miami Dolphins, but it’s only a matter of time before the organization parts ways with him. Cutting or trading him means eating an insane amount of dead money, which will likely prevent the team from paying up for the in-demand Malik Willis. Someone needs to start next year, and while Derek Carr isn’t the most inspiring quarterback, he’s good enough to ensure a base level of competency at the game’s most important position.
Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings have almost all the pieces needed to make a deep playoff run. The roster is loaded with talent on both sides of the ball, head coach Kevin O’Connell is one of the best in the game, and defensive coordinator Brian Flores is among the game’s most respected minds. The only problem is the quarterback position, as J.J. McCarthy had a disastrous 2025. Derek Carr has never won a playoff game in his career, but the quarterback has never played on a team as talented as this.
New York Jets
Head coach Aaron Glenn earned another year at the helm after a disappointing 2025, but he won’t get a third season if he can’t turn this team around. While just about every position needs some help, you can’t win games without a competent quarterback. The Justin Fields Experiment did not go according to plan, and it’s unlikely a young quarterback would immediately do well in this environment. Glenn needs immediate help if he is to save his job, and Derek Carr could provide the stability this team needs.
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