As the NFL offseason unfolds, the quarterback market is looking pretty sparse, but there might just be a new twist on the horizon. Rumor has it that Derek Carr, the former New Orleans Saints quarterback, is contemplating a return to the league in 2026. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Carr is "very serious" about coming out of retirement.
Now, the Saints still hold Carr's rights, so any return would require a trade. But with Tyler Shough stepping up as the future for New Orleans, the team seems open to moving Carr along. Carr himself has been candid about his intentions, making it clear that he's not looking to join just any team-he wants a shot at a Super Bowl.
Carr stated, "Would I do it? Absolutely, I would.
But I need to be healthy, and I want a chance to win a Super Bowl. That's not easy to find."
Looking at the 2026 landscape, most true Super Bowl contenders already have their quarterback situations locked down. The Kansas City Chiefs might be an exception if Patrick Mahomes isn't ready for Week 1, but their need is likely short-term.
However, there are a few playoff contenders that could make a leap with Carr at the helm. The Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Minnesota Vikings are all intriguing possibilities.
The Falcons are expected to part ways with Kirk Cousins, leaving them with Michael Penix Jr., whose first season as a starter left much to be desired. With new leadership in Atlanta, a quarterback change isn't off the table.
The Steelers, on the other hand, are waiting on Aaron Rodgers' decision for 2026. If Rodgers doesn’t return, Pittsburgh might be in the market for a seasoned quarterback to join Mason Rudolph and Will Howard.
But it's the Vikings who might be the most compelling fit. After winning 14 games with Sam Darnold in 2024, Minnesota stumbled to a 9-8 record with J.J.
McCarthy's struggles under center. Adding Carr could be the spark they need to reignite their Super Bowl ambitions.
If we were placing bets, the Vikings might just be the perfect landing spot for Carr's comeback.