When Derek Carr announced his retirement in May, the NFL world was blindsided. Just months earlier, the New Orleans Saints quarterback was expected to at least give it one more run, despite lingering questions about his health.
Instead, Carr walked away from the game in a move that drew immediate comparisons to Andrew Luck’s surprise exit in 2019. The decision was stunning, but not without a deeper context that helps explain why the veteran signal-caller chose to step away.
Why Did Derek Carr Decide Now Was the Time to Retire From the NFL?
The retirement statement released by the Saints painted a clear picture of a quarterback who had run out of options. During offseason throwing sessions in March, Carr experienced sharp pain in his right shoulder, the same arm he had relied on to carve out a 10-year NFL career.
Medical evaluations revealed degenerative changes in his rotator cuff and a labral tear. These injuries not only threatened his 2025 season but also raised questions about whether he could ever regain the strength required to play quarterback at a high level.
Surgery was on the table, but doctors could not guarantee Carr would ever return to full functionality. That uncertainty weighed heavily on his decision. At 34 and with more than a decade of wear and tear on his body, Carr had to consider whether another grueling rehab process would be worth it, especially knowing that the Saints had already started planning for life without him by drafting a quarterback in April.
Former Raiders & Saints QB Derek Carr breaks down his 5 favorite moments of his NFL career
What do you notice? ☠️🏴☠️ pic.twitter.com/70SmFAkqGr
— ShifftttyyyQB1🏴☠️ (@raiders1022) July 2, 2025
Carr’s career arc underscores the harsh reality of how quickly things can change in the NFL. As recently as 2022, he threw for over 3,500 yards with the Raiders and was seen as a stabilizing presence in New Orleans when he signed his four-year, $150 million deal.
But injuries mounted in 2024, including a concussion and a hand issue that ended his season prematurely. By the time the shoulder setback surfaced in 2025, his body had had enough.
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For the Saints, Carr’s retirement creates a turning point. Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, drafted 40th overall, now appears in line to start Week 1. Head coach Kellen Moore has kept competition open with Spencer Rattler, but the franchise’s direction suggests a youth movement is underway.
As for Carr, he has hinted at future opportunities in broadcasting and business, signaling that his transition into life after football is already underway. While fans may hold out hope for a comeback, Carr’s own words make it clear he is at peace with his choice.
