The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a holding pattern as they await Aaron Rodgers' decision on whether he'll suit up for the 2026 season. Meanwhile, veteran quarterback Derek Carr remains a free agent, with no teams knocking on the New Orleans Saints' door to discuss his contract rights.
Carr, now 34, has expressed his willingness to come out of retirement, but he's clear about his conditions. He wants to join a team with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.
“Would I do it? Yes.
Would I do it for anybody? Absolutely not,” Carr shared on the Home Grown with David & Derek Carr podcast.
His criteria? Health and a real shot at a championship.
Despite his eagerness, interest in Carr has been lukewarm. His last NFL appearance in 2024 saw him throw for 2,145 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions over 10 games before injuries cut his season short. He retired after a labral tear in his rotator cuff, choosing rest over surgery, which would have sidelined him for the entire 2025 season.
The Saints have reported no inquiries about Carr during the free agency period, leaving his market value in question. However, the dynamic could shift if Rodgers opts out of returning, potentially opening a door for Carr in Pittsburgh.
Carr's career stats reflect a solid tenure in the league, with 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions since being drafted by the Raiders in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. As the offseason progresses, teams in need of a seasoned quarterback might reconsider their stance on Carr, especially if they find themselves in need of a veteran presence under center.