New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has announced his retirement from the NFL after 11 seasons, citing a significant shoulder injury that would have required surgery and potentially sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. The 34-year-old veteran suffered a labral tear and degenerative damage to his right rotator cuff during a game against the New York Giants in December 2024. After consulting with his wife and medical professionals, Carr decided to retire rather than undergo a procedure with uncertain recovery prospects.
Carr's NFL journey began in 2014 when he was drafted by the Oakland Raiders. He spent nine seasons with the Raiders, earning four Pro Bowl selections and setting franchise records in completions, passing yards, and touchdowns. In 2023, he joined the Saints on a four-year, $150 million contract. Despite battling multiple injuries—including concussions, fractured ribs, and an oblique strain—Carr managed to start all 17 games in the 2023 season, finishing with 3,878 yards and 28 touchdowns. However, the 2024 season was marred by further injuries, limiting him to 10 games.
Throughout his career, Carr accumulated 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions over 169 games. He ranks among the top 25 quarterbacks in NFL history for passing yards. His decision to retire will be officially filed after June 1, impacting the Saints' salary cap with $13.2 million in 2025 and $35.6 million in 2026 in dead money, though he retains a $10 million roster bonus.
In the wake of Carr's retirement, the Saints are evaluating their quarterback options. The team has recently drafted Tyler Shough in the second round and previously selected Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler. Head coach Kellen Moore has indicated that all three quarterbacks will have the opportunity to compete for the starting position.
Beyond football, Carr is transitioning into a new chapter as an investor and brand ambassador for Frönen, a health-conscious frozen dessert company. The venture aligns with his family's health-focused lifestyle and represents a promising new endeavor post-retirement.
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