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Derek Carr Confirms Offseason Interest but Says He Would Only Unretire for a 'Special' Contender

The New Orleans Saints still hold Carr’s rights, so any team would need Saints permission or a trade to sign him.

Overview

  • Carr told NFL Network that multiple NFL clubs contacted him this offseason about a comeback, but he said on July 10 that he will “probably” remain retired and would only return for a rare Super Bowl‑caliber opportunity.
  • New Orleans placed Carr on the reserve/retired list when he left in May 2025, which means the Saints retain his NFL rights and teams must get permission or complete a trade to add him.
  • Carr retired after scans showed a labral tear and significant degenerative rotator‑cuff changes in his right shoulder, though he says he is training and believes he could be physically ready if called upon.
  • Most outlets and analysts view a 2026 return as unlikely unless a contending team suffers a sudden, season‑ending QB injury, which would create an emergency pathway similar to short‑term veteran comebacks seen in past years.
  • Carr says he is enjoying family time and golf and is selective about returning, so his future is likely to remain a standby storyline that teams monitor through training camps and the trade deadline rather than an imminent roster move.