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Derek Carr has made the surprising decision to retire.
The New Orleans Saints made the announcement on Saturday morning. The team made a lengthy post on social media explaining that Carr experienced pain in his shoulder in late March, his first instance of throwing at a significant volume since his December left-hand injury.
The shoulder pain is due to a labral tear and significant damage to the rotator cuff. Per the Saints, surgery was an option, but there was not guarantee Carr would return to the same level of strength. He decided it was best for himself and the Saints organization to retire.
Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the National Football League,” Carr said in a released statement. “For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience. It’s difficult to find the right words to express our thanks to all the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, team officials and especially the fans who made this journey so special. Your unwavering support has meant the world to us.
Carr’s retirement leaves the Saints with a current QB room of Tyler Shough, Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. Rattler, a former South Carolina and Oklahoma quarterback, received playing time as a rookie filling in for an injured Carr. Shough is the club’s second-round 2025 pick out of Louisville.
Derek Carr has announced his retirement.
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) May 10, 2025
In late March, while ramping up his preparation for the 2025 season, Derek experienced pain in his right shoulder. It was his first time throwing a football at significant volume since recovering from both a concussion and left hand… pic.twitter.com/SrcJEzDDnU
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
