Derek Carr, the former NFL quarterback, has sparked conversation after suggesting he might come out of retirement. Carr retired in May 2025, citing a shoulder injury as the primary reason for stepping away from the game, but recent updates reveal he has been medically cleared to play again.
On his “Home Grown” podcast, Carr hinted at a comeback under certain conditions, stating,
“Would I do it? The answer, obviously is yes,”
indicating his openness to returning to the NFL.
Conditions Required for Carr’s NFL Return
While Carr expressed willingness to resume his career, he emphasized two critical prerequisites: being fully healthy and having a legitimate chance to compete for a Super Bowl title. He acknowledged the difficulty of meeting these standards, declaring,
“I told them two things: I would have to be healthy and I would want the chance to win a Super Bowl,”
adding,
“Obviously, that’s hard to find. It’s hard to achieve. It’s not easy.”
With medical clearance confirming his shoulder has healed, Carr appears to have satisfied the health requirement. The question remains whether he will find a team capable of matching his championship aspirations for the 2026 NFL season.
Current Contract Status with the New Orleans Saints
Despite his retirement, Derek Carr remains under contract with the New Orleans Saints through the end of the 2026 season. Should he decide to return this year, the Saints retain his rights. Carr inked a reported four-year agreement with New Orleans in 2023, before retiring after two seasons with the team.
Prior to joining the Saints, Carr spent nine seasons with the Oakland and later Las Vegas Raiders, where he earned four Pro Bowl selections, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier quarterback.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects
Carr’s potential return raises significant questions about team dynamics and playoff prospects across the NFL. His readiness and ambitions could influence the Saints’ strategy and playoff outlook, especially given his experience and previous accolades.
As the 2026 season approaches, attention will focus on whether Carr can secure a championship-caliber opportunity and reestablish himself on the field. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if he transitions from retirement back to active play, potentially altering the competitive landscape.
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