Quarterback Derek Carr, after evaluating his shoulder injury and his future in the NFL, made the decision to retire. Carr revealed that he didn’t want to “just take” the money from the New Orleans Saints.
Carr announced his retirement on May 10, after which the Saints reported that the quarterback was suffering from a torn labrum and “significant degenerative changes in the rotator cuff.” Options such as surgery and playing despite the injury were considered, but Carr felt that neither option was suitable.Carr added that he would not have been able to play if he had undergone surgery, and that he also would not have been able to perform at 100% if he had tried to play with the injury. Therefore, he felt that the right thing to do was to retire, both for himself and for the team.That part was difficult because I didn’t want to have surgery and just sit there and, although it sounds strange, just take the Saints’ money.
Derek Carr
Carr signed a four-year, $150 million contract with the Saints in 2023. Upon retiring, he forfeited his $30 million base salary for the 2025 season, although he retained a $10 million roster bonus in 2025.
Following Carr’s departure, the Saints now have a quarterback competition between Tyler Shough, Spencer Rattler, and Jake Haener. The Saints knew about Carr’s injury since March and waited during the draft process to learn more about his future.
The Saints’ coach, Kellen Moore, stated last month that Carr had done everything possible and communicated very well. Now that he is retired, Carr is open to the idea of going into broadcasting, likely at the college level. He also mentioned the possibility of coaching.For now, Carr is enjoying his time away from football and being with his family.
Carr concluded by saying that he feels very well and that he has really enjoyed being at home.My agent texted me a few days ago and asked, “Hey, how’s everything going? Are you still feeling good about the decision?” I sent him a picture of me on the beach with my two kids playing. And I told him, “This is better than any workout.” And he responded, “Yeah, I thought so.”
Derek Carr
