Derek Carr Open to NFL Return in 2026-But Only If the Fit Is Right
Don’t close the book on Derek Carr just yet. The veteran quarterback may have stepped away from the game, but according to league sources, he’s not ruling out a return to the NFL in 2026-if the situation is right.
Right now, Carr is enjoying life away from the grind. He’s spending time with family, staying involved in personal projects, and, by all accounts, embracing retirement.
But he’s also keeping an eye on the league and hasn’t shied away from joking about a potential comeback. And behind the lighthearted comments, there’s a real possibility that the right team, the right coach, and the right opportunity could pull him back onto the field.
Quarterback Market Could Open the Door
The timing might just work in Carr’s favor. The 2026 quarterback market looks thin-thinner than usual. Several teams are expected to be in the hunt for a veteran signal-caller, and with few obvious answers available, Carr’s name could rise quickly on front-office whiteboards.
Carr’s health is no longer a question mark. After dealing with a shoulder injury that lingered throughout last season, he opted against surgery and instead focused on rest and rehab.
That decision appears to have paid off. According to sources, Carr has no current limitations with the shoulder, which could be a key factor in teams’ evaluations if he decides to return.
Saints Hold the Cards-But Not Tightly
While the Saints technically still hold Carr’s contractual rights, the relationship between the two sides ended on good terms. Carr gave up guaranteed money and helped ease the team’s salary cap burden when he retired, which could pave the way for a smooth transition if another team comes calling. New Orleans isn’t expected to play hardball if Carr wants to resume his career elsewhere.
And there will be interest. The Colts and Bengals reportedly checked in on Carr last year during their own quarterback struggles.
Looking ahead to 2026, teams like the Vikings, Jets, and Steelers are expected to be in the market for a veteran presence under center. Carr, with his experience and leadership, could be a compelling option-especially for a team that’s built to win now but needs stability at quarterback.
A Career Worth Remembering
Carr, now 34, has had a career that’s been both productive and resilient. Drafted in the second round by the Raiders in 2014, he quickly became the face of the franchise. In 2017, he signed a five-year, $125 million extension with $70 million guaranteed-at the time, one of the richest deals in NFL history.
After a rollercoaster run with the Raiders, Carr was released and found a new home in New Orleans, where he signed a four-year, $150 million contract. He was due $40 million in base salary in 2026 before deciding to walk away from the game.
His 2024 season with the Saints was short but efficient. In ten games, he completed 68.1% of his passes for 1,926 yards, 14 touchdowns, and just four interceptions-numbers that suggest he still had plenty left in the tank.
Over the course of his career, Carr played in 169 games between the Raiders and Saints, completing 65.1% of his passes for 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions. His career record of 77-92 doesn’t tell the full story-Carr often played on teams in transition, yet consistently brought professionalism and poise to the huddle.
What Comes Next
For now, Carr remains retired. But in a league where quarterback depth is a constant concern and veteran leadership is at a premium, it wouldn’t take much to spark serious interest.
The door’s not wide open-but it’s definitely not closed. And if the right situation comes along, don’t be surprised if Derek Carr suits up again in 2026.