The Injury That Ended a Career
The shoulder injury that forced Carr’s retirement was first detected in late March 2025, when he began ramping up his throwing regimen in preparation for the upcoming season. According to the Saints, this was the first time Carr had thrown at significant volume since sustaining a concussion and fracturing his non-throwing (left) hand during a December 2024 game against the New York Giants. The pain in his right (throwing) shoulder prompted immediate consultation with the Saints’ medical team, leading to scans that revealed the extent of the damage: a labral tear and degenerative rotator cuff issues.
Medical evaluations presented Carr with a difficult choice. Surgery was an optieon, but it would have sidelined him for the entire 2025 season with no guarantee of restoring the strength and performance level he had maintained throughout his career. After exploring non-surgical options like injections and rehabilitation, which failed to resolve the issue, Carr, in consultation with his wife, Heather, and after “reflection of prayer,” chose retirement over an uncertain recovery.
The timing and nature of the injury sparked initial speculation. Reports surfaced in early April 2025 that Carr was dealing with a shoulder issue, but the lack of clarity about when or how it occurred fueled rumors. Some speculated it was a recurrence of a 2023 AC joint sprain in his right shoulder, while Carr’s brother, David, suggested it stemmed from the December 2024 Giants game. Regardless, the injury’s severity and its impact on Carr’s throwing ability were undeniable, marking the end of his playing days.
A Storied Career Cut Short
Derek Carr’s retirement closes the chapter on a career that began with promise and evolved through challenges and triumphs. Selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the then-Oakland Raiders out of Fresno State, Carr quickly established himself as a durable and dependable quarterback. Over nine seasons with the Raiders, he started 142 games, earning four Pro Bowl selections and setting franchise records. His tenure included a standout 2016 season, where he led the Raiders to a 12-4 record and their first playoff appearance since 2002, though a late-season injury sidelined him for the postseason.
In 2023, Carr signed a four-year, $150 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, seeking a fresh start after a tumultuous final season with the Raiders. His two years in New Orleans were a mixed bag, with a 14-13 record as a starter. In 2023, he threw for 3,878 yards, 25 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, guiding the Saints to a 9-8 record. However, injuries plagued his 2024 season, limiting him to 10 starts with 2,145 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Despite these setbacks, Carr’s five wins in 2024 accounted for all of the Saints’ victories, underscoring his value to the team.
Carr retires with 41,245 career passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions, placing him among the NFL’s top 24 quarterbacks in both categories. His 77-92 regular-season record as a starter reflects the challenges of playing for often-struggling franchises, and his lack of a playoff win remains a notable gap in an otherwise impressive resume. Yet, Carr’s consistency starting 169 games and his leadership on and off the field earned him widespread respect.
In his retirement statement, Carr expressed gratitude for his 11-year journey: “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 thanks to all the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, team officials, and especially the fans who made this journey so special. Your unwavering support has meant the world to us.”
The Road to Retirement: A Saga of Uncertainty
The path to Carr’s retirement was fraught with tension and speculation. News of his shoulder injury broke on April 11, 2025, just days before the Saints’ offseason program began, raising questions about his status for the upcoming season. The vague initial reports, which didn’t specify the injury’s origin, led to skepticism from some media and fans. Analysts like The Athletic’s Dianna Russini and Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio speculated that the injury announcement might be a strategic move, possibly tied to contract disputes or trade aspirations.
Carr addressed these rumors during a guest sermon at Church LV in Las Vegas on April 28, 2025, forcefully defending the legitimacy of his injury: “I hate that I have to say this, but I have to say this. Yes, I have a shoulder injury, despite what ESPN says, and what some lady on a podcast might think. I have an MRI report to prove it. The team knows about it, we’ve been in constant communication.” He criticized the “nonsense” of social media speculation, emphasizing his transparency with the Saints.
Behind the scenes, Carr’s relationship with the Saints appeared strained. Reports indicated he had sought a raise or explored trade options earlier in the offseason, only for the team to restructure his contract, tying him to New Orleans through 2026. The Saints’ decision to draft Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round (No. 40 overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft further fueled speculation about Carr’s future, with some viewing Shough as a potential successor. General Manager Mickey Loomis maintained that Carr was the starter “if healthy,” but the lack of definitive updates on his recovery kept the situation murky.
The financial implications of Carr’s retirement are significant. By retiring, he forgoes $30 million in guaranteed salary for 2025, while the Saints avoid seeking reimbursement for a $10 million roster bonus and signing bonus, creating a win-win financially. The team will process the retirement as a post-June 1 transaction, gaining approximately $30 million in salary cap relief, though the free agent market offers limited options this late in the offseason.
Implications for the New Orleans Saints
Carr’s retirement leaves the Saints at a crossroads as they approach the 2025 season. The quarterback room now consists of Tyler Shough, 2024 fifth-round pick Spencer Rattler, and 2023 fourth-round pick Jake Haener, who collectively have just eight NFL starts. Shough, a 25-year-old rookie with a strong arm but a history of injuries, is the frontrunner to compete for the starting role, having impressed evaluators during the draft process. Rattler and Haener, who went 0-7 in Carr’s absence last season, will also vie for playing time, setting the stage for a competitive training camp.
The Saints’ decision to draft Shough suggests they anticipated Carr’s potential absence, whether due to injury or retirement. However, the loss of their veteran starter weeks before the season poses challenges for new head coach Kellen Moore, who inherited a complex quarterback situation. The team’s $27 million in cap space and the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 draft (which they used on a non-quarterback) limit their immediate options for a proven replacement. Veterans like Aaron Rodgers or Carson Wentz remain free agents, but their availability and fit are uncertain.
The Saints’ 5-12 record in 2024, including a last-place finish in the NFC South, underscores the need for a rebuild. Carr’s retirement accelerates this process, freeing up resources but placing pressure on a young, unproven quarterback group to deliver under Moore’s offensive system. The fanbase, known for its passionate support, now faces a season of uncertainty, with hopes pinned on Shough or another emerging talent to lead the franchise forward.
Derek Carr’s Legacy
Beyond the numbers, Derek Carr’s legacy is defined by his character and perseverance. Known as one of the NFL’s “good guys,” Carr was a vocal leader, a devout Christian, and a family man who navigated personal and professional challenges with grace. His outspoken defense of his injury during his church sermon reflected his frustration with public scrutiny but also his commitment to authenticity.
Carr’s career was not without criticism he never won a playoff game, and his performance in high-stakes moments sometimes fell short but his durability and consistency were remarkable. He started nearly every game for the Raiders and Saints when healthy, a testament to his toughness, especially given the physical toll of injuries like the 2023 shoulder sprain, 2024 hand fracture, and the final, career-ending shoulder damage.
Fans and teammates will remember Carr for his connection to the Raiders’ resurgence in the mid-2010s and his effort to stabilize the Saints post-Drew Brees. His retirement statement highlighted the fans’ “unwavering support,” a nod to the communities in Oakland, Las Vegas, and New Orleans that embraced him.
Looking Ahead
As Derek Carr steps away from the NFL, the focus shifts to his post-playing career and the Saints’ future. Carr, with his strong faith and family-oriented values, may explore roles in broadcasting, coaching, or community work, leveraging his experience and charisma. For the Saints, the 2025 season will test their young quarterbacks and new coaching staff, with Carr’s absence serving as both a challenge and an opportunity to redefine the franchise.
In the end, Carr’s retirement is a poignant reminder of the physical toll of professional football and the difficult decisions athletes face when their bodies can no longer meet the demands of the game. His 11-year journey, marked by 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns, and countless memories, cements his place as a respected figure in NFL history. As he said, “We are forever grateful and humbled by this experience.”
The shoulder injury that forced Carr’s retirement was first detected in late March 2025, when he began ramping up his throwing regimen in preparation for the upcoming season. According to the Saints, this was the first time Carr had thrown at significant volume since sustaining a concussion and fracturing his non-throwing (left) hand during a December 2024 game against the New York Giants. The pain in his right (throwing) shoulder prompted immediate consultation with the Saints’ medical team, leading to scans that revealed the extent of the damage: a labral tear and degenerative rotator cuff issues.
Medical evaluations presented Carr with a difficult choice. Surgery was an optieon, but it would have sidelined him for the entire 2025 season with no guarantee of restoring the strength and performance level he had maintained throughout his career. After exploring non-surgical options like injections and rehabilitation, which failed to resolve the issue, Carr, in consultation with his wife, Heather, and after “reflection of prayer,” chose retirement over an uncertain recovery.
The timing and nature of the injury sparked initial speculation. Reports surfaced in early April 2025 that Carr was dealing with a shoulder issue, but the lack of clarity about when or how it occurred fueled rumors. Some speculated it was a recurrence of a 2023 AC joint sprain in his right shoulder, while Carr’s brother, David, suggested it stemmed from the December 2024 Giants game. Regardless, the injury’s severity and its impact on Carr’s throwing ability were undeniable, marking the end of his playing days.
A Storied Career Cut Short
Derek Carr’s retirement closes the chapter on a career that began with promise and evolved through challenges and triumphs. Selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the then-Oakland Raiders out of Fresno State, Carr quickly established himself as a durable and dependable quarterback. Over nine seasons with the Raiders, he started 142 games, earning four Pro Bowl selections and setting franchise records. His tenure included a standout 2016 season, where he led the Raiders to a 12-4 record and their first playoff appearance since 2002, though a late-season injury sidelined him for the postseason.
In 2023, Carr signed a four-year, $150 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, seeking a fresh start after a tumultuous final season with the Raiders. His two years in New Orleans were a mixed bag, with a 14-13 record as a starter. In 2023, he threw for 3,878 yards, 25 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, guiding the Saints to a 9-8 record. However, injuries plagued his 2024 season, limiting him to 10 starts with 2,145 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Despite these setbacks, Carr’s five wins in 2024 accounted for all of the Saints’ victories, underscoring his value to the team.
Carr retires with 41,245 career passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions, placing him among the NFL’s top 24 quarterbacks in both categories. His 77-92 regular-season record as a starter reflects the challenges of playing for often-struggling franchises, and his lack of a playoff win remains a notable gap in an otherwise impressive resume. Yet, Carr’s consistency starting 169 games and his leadership on and off the field earned him widespread respect.
In his retirement statement, Carr expressed gratitude for his 11-year journey: “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 thanks to all the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, team officials, and especially the fans who made this journey so special. Your unwavering support has meant the world to us.”
The Road to Retirement: A Saga of Uncertainty
The path to Carr’s retirement was fraught with tension and speculation. News of his shoulder injury broke on April 11, 2025, just days before the Saints’ offseason program began, raising questions about his status for the upcoming season. The vague initial reports, which didn’t specify the injury’s origin, led to skepticism from some media and fans. Analysts like The Athletic’s Dianna Russini and Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio speculated that the injury announcement might be a strategic move, possibly tied to contract disputes or trade aspirations.
Carr addressed these rumors during a guest sermon at Church LV in Las Vegas on April 28, 2025, forcefully defending the legitimacy of his injury: “I hate that I have to say this, but I have to say this. Yes, I have a shoulder injury, despite what ESPN says, and what some lady on a podcast might think. I have an MRI report to prove it. The team knows about it, we’ve been in constant communication.” He criticized the “nonsense” of social media speculation, emphasizing his transparency with the Saints.
Behind the scenes, Carr’s relationship with the Saints appeared strained. Reports indicated he had sought a raise or explored trade options earlier in the offseason, only for the team to restructure his contract, tying him to New Orleans through 2026. The Saints’ decision to draft Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round (No. 40 overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft further fueled speculation about Carr’s future, with some viewing Shough as a potential successor. General Manager Mickey Loomis maintained that Carr was the starter “if healthy,” but the lack of definitive updates on his recovery kept the situation murky.
The financial implications of Carr’s retirement are significant. By retiring, he forgoes $30 million in guaranteed salary for 2025, while the Saints avoid seeking reimbursement for a $10 million roster bonus and signing bonus, creating a win-win financially. The team will process the retirement as a post-June 1 transaction, gaining approximately $30 million in salary cap relief, though the free agent market offers limited options this late in the offseason.
Carr’s retirement leaves the Saints at a crossroads as they approach the 2025 season. The quarterback room now consists of Tyler Shough, 2024 fifth-round pick Spencer Rattler, and 2023 fourth-round pick Jake Haener, who collectively have just eight NFL starts. Shough, a 25-year-old rookie with a strong arm but a history of injuries, is the frontrunner to compete for the starting role, having impressed evaluators during the draft process. Rattler and Haener, who went 0-7 in Carr’s absence last season, will also vie for playing time, setting the stage for a competitive training camp.
The Saints’ decision to draft Shough suggests they anticipated Carr’s potential absence, whether due to injury or retirement. However, the loss of their veteran starter weeks before the season poses challenges for new head coach Kellen Moore, who inherited a complex quarterback situation. The team’s $27 million in cap space and the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 draft (which they used on a non-quarterback) limit their immediate options for a proven replacement. Veterans like Aaron Rodgers or Carson Wentz remain free agents, but their availability and fit are uncertain.
The Saints’ 5-12 record in 2024, including a last-place finish in the NFC South, underscores the need for a rebuild. Carr’s retirement accelerates this process, freeing up resources but placing pressure on a young, unproven quarterback group to deliver under Moore’s offensive system. The fanbase, known for its passionate support, now faces a season of uncertainty, with hopes pinned on Shough or another emerging talent to lead the franchise forward.
Derek Carr’s Legacy
Beyond the numbers, Derek Carr’s legacy is defined by his character and perseverance. Known as one of the NFL’s “good guys,” Carr was a vocal leader, a devout Christian, and a family man who navigated personal and professional challenges with grace. His outspoken defense of his injury during his church sermon reflected his frustration with public scrutiny but also his commitment to authenticity.
Carr’s career was not without criticism he never won a playoff game, and his performance in high-stakes moments sometimes fell short but his durability and consistency were remarkable. He started nearly every game for the Raiders and Saints when healthy, a testament to his toughness, especially given the physical toll of injuries like the 2023 shoulder sprain, 2024 hand fracture, and the final, career-ending shoulder damage.
Fans and teammates will remember Carr for his connection to the Raiders’ resurgence in the mid-2010s and his effort to stabilize the Saints post-Drew Brees. His retirement statement highlighted the fans’ “unwavering support,” a nod to the communities in Oakland, Las Vegas, and New Orleans that embraced him.
Looking Ahead
As Derek Carr steps away from the NFL, the focus shifts to his post-playing career and the Saints’ future. Carr, with his strong faith and family-oriented values, may explore roles in broadcasting, coaching, or community work, leveraging his experience and charisma. For the Saints, the 2025 season will test their young quarterbacks and new coaching staff, with Carr’s absence serving as both a challenge and an opportunity to redefine the franchise.
In the end, Carr’s retirement is a poignant reminder of the physical toll of professional football and the difficult decisions athletes face when their bodies can no longer meet the demands of the game. His 11-year journey, marked by 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns, and countless memories, cements his place as a respected figure in NFL history. As he said, “We are forever grateful and humbled by this experience.”
