Former Saints QB Derek Carr Considering NFL Comeback

Vikings, Chiefs, and Raiders named as potential landing spots for the four-time Pro Bowler

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr is contemplating an NFL comeback after retiring last year due to a shoulder injury. According to reports, Carr is not actively pursuing a return, but would consider the right situation and coaching staff. Analysts have named the Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and Las Vegas Raiders as possible landing spots for the four-time Pro Bowler.

Why it matters

Carr's potential return would add an interesting wrinkle to the offseason quarterback market. His experience and talent could provide a boost to teams in need of a veteran signal-caller, especially those with uncertainty at the position due to injuries or young starters.

The details

Carr retired after the 2025 season when it was revealed he had a shoulder injury that would require surgery and likely sideline him for the entire year. He is now believed to be fully healthy with no limitations. If Carr does return, the Saints would have to trade him since he is still under contract with the team. Analysts see the Vikings, Chiefs, and Raiders as potential fits, with the Vikings being the most realistic landing spot as they look to add a veteran QB to compete with or mentor young starter JJ McCarthy.

  • Carr retired after the 2025 NFL season
  • In December 2025, Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL

The players

Derek Carr

A former four-time Pro Bowl quarterback who retired from the NFL after the 2025 season due to a shoulder injury, but is now contemplating a comeback.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs who suffered a torn ACL in December 2025, creating uncertainty around his availability for the start of the 2026 season.

JJ McCarthy

The young starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings who could face competition from a veteran QB like Carr.

Fernando Mendoza

The quarterback expected to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the 1st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, known for his work developing quarterbacks.

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What they’re saying

“The Kansas City Chiefs already have a franchise quarterback in Patrick Mahomes. However, in December, the superstar signal-caller tore his ACL. While he is aiming for a Week 1 return, if KC had a proven QB on staff, they could choose to be extra cautious with their top star. While he won't get to start often, the chance to play for an elite franchise and play a key role in a potential Super Bowl run would appeal to the player who has never come close to a championship.”

— Jason Burgos, Analyst (Sportsnaut)

“One team that will definitely kick the tires on Derek Carr is the Minnesota Vikings. It has already been reported that the organization will be in search of a veteran QB to compete with and/or mentor JJ McCarthy next season. Coach Kevin O'Connell is one of the most respected in the game for his work with QBs. Playing for him and a chance to start would definitely appeal to the 34-year-old QB.”

— Jason Burgos, Analyst (Sportsnaut)

What’s next

The Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs are expected to closely evaluate Carr's potential availability and interest in joining their teams as a veteran quarterback option.

The takeaway

Derek Carr's potential NFL comeback adds an intriguing storyline to the offseason quarterback market, with the Vikings, Chiefs, and Raiders emerging as possible landing spots for the four-time Pro Bowler. Carr's experience and talent could provide a valuable boost to teams in need of a veteran presence at the position.