Derek Carr Faces Uncertain Future as NFL Teams Show Little Interest

Retired quarterback Derek Carr appears to be facing disappointing news regarding a potential return to the NFL. Despite earlier indications that he had received interest from “three or four teams,” reports suggest that those clubs are not seriously considering adding him to their rosters for the upcoming season.

As of the recent scouting combine week, the New Orleans Saints reportedly had not received any inquiries from teams about trading for Carr’s contract. NFL insider Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk noted that even through the first week of free agency, no teams had reached out regarding a deal. Carr, who was on the Saints’ roster when he retired last spring due to a significant shoulder injury, may now be reconsidering his options.

In a piece published on March 4, Saints reporter Katherine Terrell of ESPN suggested that the organization could seek a third- or fifth-round draft pick in exchange for Carr, who will celebrate his 35th birthday on March 28. Currently, teams such as the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, and Atlanta Falcons have addressed their quarterback needs through other avenues, leaving Carr’s prospects looking bleak.

The Las Vegas Raiders are anticipated to select Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, further complicating Carr’s potential return. Additionally, neither the Pittsburgh Steelers nor the Cleveland Browns have shown significant interest in acquiring him as free agency unfolds.

Challenges for a Comeback

Carr’s earlier remarks in February indicated that he would only consider a comeback if it provided him a “chance to win a Super Bowl.” As of mid-March, no leading contender appears to be in need of a starting quarterback, a situation unlikely to change in the near future. Florio highlighted that there are currently “no takers” for Carr should he decide to unretire.

Injuries to starting quarterbacks on playoff-contending teams could alter this landscape before the trade deadline. Should such circumstances arise, Carr might become a viable alternative for teams in need of depth. However, it remains uncertain whether he would be willing to join a new team during the season.

As Carr navigates this challenging period, his attempt at a comeback risks becoming a fleeting opportunity, characterized by what might have been. The football world will be watching to see how this situation unfolds in the coming weeks.