Context:

Derek Carr, the New Orleans Saints quarterback, announced his retirement from the NFL after an 11-year career marked by significant achievements and challenges. Despite a successful stint with the Raiders and the Saints, injuries including a labral tear and degenerative changes in his rotator cuff significantly impacted his decision to retire. Carr's career highlights include throwing for 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns, and being named to the Pro Bowl four times. His 2016 season with the Raiders was particularly notable, as he finished third in the NFL MVP vote despite a season-ending ankle injury. Carr's decision was influenced by personal reflection and discussions, expressing gratitude for the support he received from teammates, coaches, and fans throughout his career.

Dive Deeper:

• Derek Carr announced his retirement after 11 seasons in the NFL, citing a shoulder injury that put his 2025 season in doubt. He had missed seven games the previous year due to a concussion and a fractured hand.

• Carr's career included 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 112 interceptions, with four Pro Bowl selections between 2015 and 2017. He played nine seasons with the Raiders before signing a lucrative four-year deal with the Saints.

• In 2016, Carr led the Raiders to a 12-3 record and finished third in the NFL MVP voting, although a broken ankle cut his season short. This injury also limited his playoff appearances to just one game.

• Carr's time with the Saints was marked by a high completion rate of 68.2% over 27 games, totaling 6,023 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. His tenure was impacted by a labral tear and degenerative shoulder issues, influencing his retirement decision.

• Expressing gratitude for his NFL journey, Carr reflected on the blessings and support he received from teammates, coaches, and fans. His retirement decision followed personal reflection and discussions with his wife, Heather.

• The Saints' future plans include moving forward with Tyler Shough, selected in the NFL Draft, to fill the quarterback position following Carr's departure.

• Carr's career with the Raiders and the Saints was characterized by moments of high performance, yet marred by injuries that ultimately influenced his early retirement from professional football.