Derek Carr Announces Unexpected retirement, citing Injury Concerns
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Quarterback Derek Carr has announced his retirement from the NFL, effective instantly. The New Orleans Saints released a statement from Carr on Friday, revealing the decision was prompted by a shoulder injury that would have sidelined him for the entire 2025 season.
Shoulder Injury Forces Early Exit
Carr, 34, cited a torn labrum and degenerative changes in his rotator cuff as the primary reasons for his retirement. Doctors reportedly advised him that even with surgery, there were no guarantees he would return to full health.
“After reflecting through prayer and speaking with Heather, I have decided to retire from the NFL,” Carr said in the statement. “For over 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and are eternally grateful and humbled by this experience. it’s hard to put into words how grateful we are for all of the teammates, coaches, front office, ownership, team staff and especially the fans who have made this journey so special. Their unwavering support has meant the world to us.”
Saints’ Salary Cap Impact
Carr’s retirement offers some immediate financial relief for the Saints. The team will avoid paying Carr’s guaranteed $30 million salary for the upcoming season. However, he received a $10 million roster bonus.The Saints will still carry a dead money cap hit of $13.2 million in 2025 and a meaningful $35.6 million in 2026, according to Spotrac.
Carr’s NFL career
Drafted in the second round by the Oakland Raiders in 2014, Carr spent nine seasons with the team, earning three Pro Bowl selections. He followed the team’s relocation to Las Vegas and played three seasons there before joining the Saints for what turned out to be his final season.
Derek Carr’s unexpected Retirement Rocks NFL; Saints QB Competition Heats Up
New Orleans, LA (May 12, 2025) — In a stunning turn of events, quarterback Derek Carr has announced his retirement from the National Football League after 11 seasons. The declaration leaves the New Orleans Saints with a significant void at the quarterback position and ignites an immediate competition among the remaining players for the starting role.
Derek Carr Calls it a Career after 11 NFL Seasons
Carr, a Fresno State alumnus, amassed a career total of 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions. He played in 169 NFL games, showcasing his resilience and leadership. In 35 of those games, he led his team to a game-winning score in the final possession. his stellar 2016 season saw him finish third in MVP voting.
Who will Be the Saints’ Starting Quarterback in 2025?
With carr’s sudden departure, the Saints’ quarterback roster now features Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler, and rookie Tyler Shough.Haener, entering his third year, is the most experienced of the group. Rattler is a second-year player looking to make his mark. The saints drafted Shough, a University of Louisville product, in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Tyler Shough Eyes Starting Role After Seven-Year Collegiate Journey
Tyler Shough is poised to potentially become the starting quarterback, capping off a unique seven-year college career that spanned three major programs: Oregon, Texas Tech, and Louisville. Despite early setbacks due to injuries, Shough demonstrated his potential with the Louisville Cardinals, throwing for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions.
Shough’s journey: From Injuries to Opportunity
shough’s college career began with promise, but early injuries limited his playing time and impacted his growth. After spending three years at both Oregon and Texas Tech, he transferred to Louisville, where he finally had the opportunity to showcase his skills and experience.
Louisville Performance highlights Shough’s Potential
During his time with the Cardinals, Shough threw for 3,195 yards, accompanied by 23 touchdowns. While he did throw six interceptions he proved his ability to lead an offense and make impactful plays. His performance has positioned him as a strong contender to be the team’s starting quarterback.
What level of familiarity with the NFL and specifically the New Orleans Saints does the target audience likely have?
Derek Carr’s Retirement and the Saints’ Quarterback Situation: A Q&A
This article details Derek Carr’s unexpected retirement and its impact on the New Orleans saints. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Q&A
Why did Derek Carr retire?
Carr retired due to a shoulder injury, specifically a torn labrum and degenerative changes in his rotator cuff. Doctors advised that surgery might not fully restore his health, leading him to end his career.
How long did Derek Carr play in the NFL?
Carr played for 11 seasons in the NFL.
What was Carr’s career like?
Carr was drafted in the second round by the Oakland Raiders in 2014. He played nine seasons for the Raiders (including the Las Vegas relocation) and one season for the New Orleans Saints. He earned three pro Bowl selections.
What is the financial impact of Carr’s retirement on the Saints?
The Saints avoid paying Carr’s $30 million salary for the 2025 season, but still carry a dead money cap hit of $13.2 million in 2025, and a larger $35.6 million hit in 2026 becuase of the roster bonus.
Who are the potential starting quarterbacks for the Saints now?
With Carr’s retirement, the Saints’ quarterback competition involves Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler, and rookie Tyler Shough.
Who is Tyler Shough and what is his story?
Tyler Shough is a rookie quarterback drafted by the Saints in the second round of the 2025 draft. He had a seven-year college career at Oregon, Texas Tech, and Louisville, battling injuries but showing potential at louisville, throwing for 3,195 yards and 23 touchdowns.
What were Derek Carr’s career stats?
Carr amassed a career total of 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions. He also had 35 game-winning drives.
Carr’s retirement has created an unexpected possibility for other quarterbacks. The Saints’ future now hinges on the performance of their remaining quarterbacks.
