If the quarterback carousel is about to spin again this offseason, Derek Carr might be stepping back on for another ride.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo, Carr is considering a return to the league - but only if the right opportunity presents itself. And with a market that’s expected to be thin on proven veterans, his name carries more weight than you might expect for a player who just walked away from the game.
Carr, 34, is still technically under contract with the New Orleans Saints, but the situation there looks more procedural than prohibitive. The Saints hold his rights, but after a smooth parting of ways and an impressive rookie campaign from Tyler Shough, there’s little reason to believe New Orleans would stand in Carr’s way if a team came calling. Yes, compensation would likely be required, but nothing that would scare off a team truly in need of a veteran presence under center.
And that brings us to the Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Jets - three teams that could all be in the mix for quarterback help this offseason, and three franchises that should at least be picking up the phone.
Minnesota Vikings: A Veteran to Steady the Ship
Let’s start in Minnesota. The Vikings are expected to bring in competition for J.J.
McCarthy, and adding a seasoned vet like Carr would make a lot of sense. Carr doesn’t need to be the long-term answer here - that’s what McCarthy is for.
But in the short term, he offers a stabilizing presence. He’s a guy who’s seen everything defenses can throw at him, and he can keep the offense on schedule if McCarthy isn’t ready out of the gate.
Think of it as a bridge with upside: Carr gives Minnesota a chance to stay competitive while grooming their future.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Bridge if Rodgers Retires
Over in Pittsburgh, things could get interesting fast. If Aaron Rodgers decides to hang it up - a real possibility - the Steelers suddenly become a team in flux at the most important position.
Carr could be a logical short-term solution. He’s a four-time Pro Bowler who’s played in big games, handled pressure, and led locker rooms.
For a team that isn’t looking to hit the full reset button, Carr could be a bridge starter who buys time while the front office explores longer-term options.
New York Jets: Preparing for the Next Era
The Jets, meanwhile, are likely looking at a full reset under center. With Justin Fields’ future in doubt, New York could be in the market for both a veteran and a rookie.
Carr fits that bill - a stopgap who can still win games while a younger quarterback gets up to speed. He’s not the flashiest name on the board, but in a league where QB stability is rare, he brings exactly that.
Carr’s Comeback?
Of course, all of this hinges on Carr’s willingness to return - and on a team being willing to take the plunge. But the interest should be there.
He’s still got a live arm, a sharp football IQ, and the kind of leadership that’s hard to find on the open market. He’s not a franchise savior at this stage, but he doesn’t have to be.
For the right team, in the right situation, Carr could be the kind of veteran presence that keeps a season from going off the rails.
So don’t be surprised if his name starts popping up more often as quarterback-needy teams sketch out their offseason plans. The market might be limited - but Derek Carr could be one of the better options out there.