Report: QB Derek Carr Could Unretire If Right Situation Arises

The four-time Pro Bowler retired prior to last season but is reportedly open to a return to the NFL.

Feb. 8, 2026 at 10:55am

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Former NFL quarterback Derek Carr, who retired last May due to a shoulder injury, could potentially unretire if the right situation arises, according to a report. Carr, 34, has remained under contract with the New Orleans Saints and is believed to be open to a reunion with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he played from 2014-2022.

Why it matters

Carr's potential return to the NFL would be significant, as he was a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the more productive quarterbacks of the past decade. His retirement last year was seen as a major loss for the league, and his comeback could shake up quarterback depth charts across the NFL.

The details

Carr retired last May due to a labral tear in his shoulder and damage to his rotator cuff. However, the injuries at the time didn't stop teams from inquiring about his services, with the Cincinnati Bengals reportedly showing interest. Carr remains under contract with the Saints, who moved on last season with rookie Tyler Shough. It is believed Carr and the Saints could reach an agreement on the contract issue. Carr could also have an opportunity for a reunion with the Raiders, as his former offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is expected to accept the Raiders' head coaching position after the Super Bowl.

  • Carr retired from the NFL prior to the start of the 2025 season.
  • In September 2025, Carr said "Never say never" when asked about a potential return on "The Dan Patrick Show".
  • Carr is currently under contract with the New Orleans Saints.

The players

Derek Carr

A 34-year-old former NFL quarterback who retired prior to the 2025 season due to a shoulder injury, but is reportedly open to a potential return to the league.

Klint Kubiak

Carr's offensive coordinator with the New Orleans Saints in 2024, who is expected to accept the head coaching position with the Las Vegas Raiders after the Super Bowl.

Tyler Shough

The rookie quarterback who took over as the starter for the New Orleans Saints after Carr's retirement.

Joe Burrow

The Cincinnati Bengals' Pro Bowl quarterback who went down with an injury early in the 2025 season, leading the team to inquire about Carr's services.

Joe Flacco

The veteran quarterback the Cincinnati Bengals signed to address their quarterback situation after Burrow's injury in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Never say never. Because I've learned that when I say never, it usually happens.”

— Derek Carr (The Dan Patrick Show)

What’s next

Carr and the New Orleans Saints are expected to work on resolving his contract situation, which could pave the way for a potential return to the NFL. Additionally, Carr's former offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is expected to accept the head coaching job with the Las Vegas Raiders after the Super Bowl, which could open the door for a reunion between Carr and the Raiders.

The takeaway

Derek Carr's potential unretirement would be a significant development in the NFL, as he was a productive and accomplished quarterback prior to his surprise retirement last year. His return could shake up quarterback depth charts across the league and provide an experienced starter for teams in need of a veteran signal-caller.