The New York Jets are in full-on quarterback hunt mode - and in a twist that few saw coming, they might be eyeing a reunion between Derek Carr and one of his most successful offensive coaches.
Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler who retired after an injury-shortened stint with the Saints, is reportedly open to returning - but only for the right situation. And with the Jets finalizing their offensive coaching staff, that situation might just be taking shape in New York.
The biggest name among the new hires? Quarterbacks coach Bill Musgrave.
If that name rings a bell, it should - Musgrave was Carr’s offensive coordinator in Oakland during the 2015 and 2016 seasons, arguably the best stretch of Carr’s career. Under Musgrave, Carr looked like a franchise cornerstone, posting career highs and leading the Raiders to a 12-4 record in 2016 before a leg injury derailed their playoff run.
Now, the Jets are hoping lightning can strike twice.
Musgrave’s arrival comes just days after the Jets landed Frank Reich as their new offensive coordinator, signaling a full reset on that side of the ball. And for Carr, who turns 35 in March and is still under contract with New Orleans, the combination of familiar coaching and a potentially strong supporting cast could be enough to pull him back into the league.
Of course, the logistics are still tricky. Carr would need to be traded - and while he’s not in his prime and is coming off a significant shoulder injury, the Jets would likely have to part with a Day 3 pick to make it happen. That’s not a steep price if they believe Carr can stabilize a quarterback room that’s been in flux since Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles injury derailed the 2025 season.
When healthy, Carr has shown he can still play. In his last fully healthy campaign with the Saints, he posted a 5-5 record with 15 touchdowns to just five interceptions. Over two seasons in New Orleans, he threw for 40 touchdowns against 13 picks - numbers that, if replicated in New York, would represent a massive upgrade at the position.
And let’s not overlook the rest of the equation. The Jets have quietly built a quality offensive line, a key factor for any veteran quarterback weighing a return. Add in a receiving corps that’s flashed potential and a coaching staff that includes two of Carr’s most trusted voices, and it’s easy to see why New York could be an appealing landing spot.
The Jets already pursued Carr once before he signed with the Saints. That door closed - but not permanently.
Now, with Rodgers’ future uncertain and the team looking to stay competitive in a loaded AFC, a second shot at Carr might be more than just a fallback plan. It might be the best path forward.
If Carr is truly considering a comeback, this Jets setup - with Musgrave in his ear and Reich running the offense - could be tailor-made for him. And for a franchise still searching for quarterback stability, that kind of fit is worth exploring.