Speculation about how Derek Carr‘s future would play out under a new Saints coaching staff came to an end when he retired in May. That decision came about after options outside of New Orleans were explored. 
Instead of undergoing shoulder surgery, Carr elected to hang up his cleats as part of an arrangement which saw him forego his guaranteed base salary for 2025. Once the 34-year-old’s retirement had been processed, it appeared a comeback would not receive consideration. Nothing is imminent with respect to an NFL return, but Carr did recently leave the door open to one.
“I wouldn’t say never,” the four-time Pro Bowler said about a comeback during an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show (video link). “Because I’ve learned that when I say never, it usually happens. I think we’ve all probably learned that. For me, I’m training because I love to train. That’s going to be the rest of my life.
“I throw a football every now and then with my kids and to my buddy for fun because it’s part of my rehab for my shoulder… I don’t want to go out there and not be ready. I’ll be ready, but I’m not coming back. Right now, today, I’m not coming back.”
Considering the fact Carr is currently unable to play due to his shoulder injury, he is of course not a candidate to see game time in 2025 regardless of his intentions. The former Raiders starter could receive interest once healthy, however, something which has proven to be the case on a number of occasions with other quarterbacks after they retire. It will be interesting to see if that takes place in Carr’s situation.
The Fresno State product amassed over $205MM in career earnings, so finances will not be a motivating factor in the event a comeback is to be considered. Carr was part of the YouTube TV broadcast of the Chiefs-Chargers game in Week 1, and a media career could await him if he wishes to pursue one. For the time being, though, the possibility of suiting up in the future has not been completely ruled out.
A seven/eight figure pay day, even layered on top of prior earnings, is useful. Sure, come on back if there’s an opportunity…
I could see the right injury make a team call him up, but I would more likely see this as a Tannehill situation where he would only want to play in a clear starting situation that no one actually wants to give him.
‘I Wouldn’t Say Never’ to dating the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit models…but I’ll deny every word of that if you tell my wife 🙂
For your sake, I hope you can say never to Mrs. Lemon having an account here. Lol
Average backup material.