New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr sent shockwaves through the National Football League this weekend, announcing his retirement from the sport after 11 seasons.
According to a former NFL quarterback, the Saints “need to call Aaron Rodgers” after Carr’s sudden retirement.
Derek Carr Announces Retirement from NFL
Although there had been recent speculation about Carr possibly missing the 2025 NFL season, few anticipated that the 34-year-old would hang up the cleats so early. However, the team’s statement on Carr’s retirement sheds light on his decision.
According to the Saints, “medical scans determined objectively that Derek sustained a labral tear and also had significant degenerative changes to his rotator cuff” after he experienced pain in late March while ramping up his preparation for the 2025 season.
While season-ending surgery was discussed at length, the team indicated that “there was no guarantee (Carr) would return to the level of strength, function and performance of play to which he was accustomed.”
In a statement released by the team, Carr said, “Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the National Football League. 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.”
Robert Griffin III Says Saints Should Call Aaron Rodgers
While retirement comes as a shock to the majority of the NFL, the Saints may have anticipated this, using the No. 40 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to select former Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough.
However, Griffin III believes the Saints should explore the veteran free-agent market for a stop-gap quarterback option this season. Specifically, he recommends that the Saints reach out to controversial quarterback Aaron Rodgers to gauge his interest in joining the team with a tweet on Saturday.
While Rodgers continues to flirt with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he remains unsigned as of this moment. He would instantly add credibility to the Saints’ quarterback room, but New Orleans may not be the ideal fit for the 41-year-old gunslinger.
After two disappointing seasons with the New York Jets, Rodgers is looking for one final Super Bowl push to end his career. However, it is not certain that the retooling Saints can offer that. While Carr’s retirement should improve their salary cap situation, they are still a few years away from being competitive.