NEW ORLEANS — Former New Orleans Saints and Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is fueling speculation about a potential return to the NFL for the 2026 season. After a shock retirement in May 2025 due to significant shoulder injuries, the four-time Pro Bowler has recently addressed rumors regarding his health and interest in a comeback.
Carr, 34, stepped away from the game last year following a labral tear and rotator cuff damage that would have required extensive surgery and a long stint on the injured reserve. However, reports as of February 15, 2026, suggest that his shoulder has healed significantly during his time away from the field, leading to “rumblings” of a return to professional football.
Carr Sets Conditions for Potential 2026 Return
Speaking on his “Home Grown” podcast with his brother, David Carr, the veteran signal-caller confirmed he is open to unretiring under specific circumstances. “Would I come back? The answer is yes,” Carr stated, while emphasizing that he is looking for a “right situation” involving a competitive coaching staff and a legitimate chance to win a Super Bowl.
Despite the openness to a return, Carr has already begun narrowing down his options. Recent reports indicate he has “slammed the door” on certain trade suitors, reportedly telling one team “absolutely not” when discussed as a potential fit. This selective approach suggests that if Carr does return, it will only be for a high-caliber contender.
Career Legacy and Statistics
Before his retirement, Carr established himself as one of the most productive quarterbacks of his era. Over 11 NFL seasons, he amassed impressive career statistics:
- Passing Yards: 41,245
- Passing Touchdowns: 257
- Completions: 3,765
- Pro Bowl Selections: 4
Carr remains the all-time franchise leader for the Raiders in passing yards (35,222) and touchdowns (217). His final active season in 2024 with the New Orleans Saints saw him throw for 2,145 yards and 15 touchdowns in 10 games before health issues derailed his campaign.
The Saints’ Post-Carr Era
Since Carr’s departure, the New Orleans Saints have moved forward with Tyler Shough as the franchise quarterback. While the Saints still technically hold Carr’s rights in some trade scenarios, the emergence of younger talent and Carr’s own desire for a specific environment make a return to New Orleans unlikely.
As the 2026 NFL offseason approaches, teams like the New York Jets and other playoff-ready rosters have been linked to Carr in social media “buzz.” While Carr is not currently “actively pursuing” a return, his improved health status makes him the most intriguing veteran name on the market as training camps loom later this year.