Derek Carr Announces Retirement from NFL After 11-Year Career
New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has announced his retirement from the NFL after 11 seasons, citing a significant shoulder injury.
Key Highlights:
In a surprising announcement, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has officially retired from the NFL, ending an 11-year career marked by leadership, resilience, and a lasting impact on two franchises.
Carr’s decision to retire comes after medical evaluations revealed a significant shoulder injury, including a labral tear and degenerative changes in his rotator cuff. Medical professionals advised that the injury would require surgery, and recovery could potentially jeopardize his ability to play in the 2025 season.
Derek Carr’s Emotional Farewell
In a heartfelt statement, Carr expressed his gratitude for his NFL journey:
“Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the National Football League. For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience. It’s difficult to find the right words to express our gratitude,” Carr shared.
The 34-year-old quarterback also thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his career.
A Look Back at Derek Carr’s NFL Career
Derek Carr began his professional journey with the then-Oakland Raiders (now Las Vegas Raiders) in 2014 after being selected in the second round of the NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a franchise quarterback, leading the Raiders to multiple playoff appearances and earning Pro Bowl honors.
- NFL Debut: 2014 (Oakland Raiders)
- Pro Bowl Appearances: 4 (2015, 2016, 2017, 2022)
- Career Passing Yards: 36,596
- Career Touchdowns: 239
- Completion Percentage: 64.9%
In 2023, Carr signed with the New Orleans Saints, where he continued to demonstrate his leadership and skill. Despite facing injuries, his resilience and commitment made him a respected figure in the locker room and among fans.
Why Derek Carr Retired
Carr’s retirement is directly linked to his recent shoulder injury, which significantly impacted his ability to perform at his best. Medical evaluations confirmed a labral tear and degenerative changes in his rotator cuff — a combination that would have required surgery and extensive recovery time.
Rather than undergoing a long rehabilitation process with uncertain outcomes, Carr chose to retire on his terms.
What Lies Ahead for the Saints
With Derek Carr’s departure, the New Orleans Saints are now tasked with finding a successor. Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough is currently on the roster, but the team may explore other options in the offseason to strengthen the position.
Carr’s leadership will be missed, but his impact on the Saints and the NFL as a whole will not be forgotten.
Fans, teammates, and NFL analysts have taken to social media to pay tribute to Carr, celebrating his contributions both on and off the field.
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