Derek Carr Announces Retirement Due to Shoulder Injuries

NEW ORLEANS -- Veteran quarterback Derek Carr has decided to retire from professional football, citing significant injuries to his right shoulder. The New Orleans Saints confirmed this announcement, revealing that Carr has been diagnosed with a labral tear and notable degenerative changes to his rotator cuff.

At 34 years old, Carr has completed 11 seasons in the NFL, having been drafted in the second round by the Oakland Raiders in 2014 after his college career at Fresno State. He joined the Saints as a free agent in 2023, but his time in New Orleans has been marked by injuries and inconsistent performance, resulting in a 14-13 record as a starter. Last season, he missed seven games due to various injuries, including those affecting his oblique, hand, and head.

As he began offseason training, Carr experienced unexpected pain in his throwing shoulder, which led to the diagnosis that ultimately prompted his retirement. The Saints noted that surgery was an option but could jeopardize the entirety of the 2025 season, and there was no guarantee that Carr would regain his previous level of play.

The team had not publicly acknowledged Carr's injury until just before the NFL draft in late April. Subsequently, Carr addressed the situation during a sermon at a Las Vegas church, defending himself against critics who questioned the timing of his injury and the team's initial silence regarding it.

Throughout his career, Carr has amassed impressive stats, totaling 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdown passes, and 112 interceptions. He leaves the game with a regular-season record of 77 wins and 92 losses, and he made one playoff appearance.

Upon announcing his decision, Carr reflected on his career, expressing gratitude for the support of his teammates, coaches, and fans. He emphasized that his choice was made with the input of his wife and through personal reflection.

With Carr's retirement, the Saints will now look to younger quarterbacks on their roster to fill the void. Among them is Tyler Shough, a second-round draft pick from Louisville, who is eager to compete for the starting position. Shough's background includes a lengthy collegiate career at multiple programs, and he expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to showcase his abilities.

Other quarterbacks currently on the Saints roster include Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener, both of whom struggled last season without securing a victory. The team's new head coach, Kellen Moore, acknowledged that Carr's retirement opens up opportunities for these younger players to gain valuable experience and preparation.

Moore mentioned that while the team is aware of the possibility of signing an experienced quarterback, they are primarily focused on developing their current roster.

Carr's journey in the NFL reflects the challenges many professional athletes face, particularly concerning injuries and the decision to step away from the sport. The Saints will now navigate a new chapter as they seek to build their team moving forward.