The New York Jets have attempted to draft a franchise quarterback in recent years but have not been successful.
With coach Aaron Glenn entering his second season, New York is seeking growth from Year 1 to Year 2, and establishing stability at quarterback would significantly aid that effort.
Without the top pick in the NFL Draft, there does not appear to be another quarterback — outside Fernando Mendoza — who is prepared to start immediately. Could a retired NFL veteran be a potential option for the Jets?
Matthew Berry Throws Derek Carr In as Option for Jets at Quarterback
NBC Sports’ Matthew Berry spent last week at the NFL Scouting Combine listening to rumors and conversations regarding potential offseason moves.
For the Jets, one of those discussions involved four-time Pro Bowl quarterback Derek Carr.
Carr dealt with injuries late in his career, has not played in a year, and is retired. However, Berry reported that the Saints expect the veteran quarterback to return.
“The Saints expect him to un-retire and play in 2026,” Berry wrote (via NBC Sports). “The Saints are very happy with Tyler Shough, so New Orleans expects Carr to un-retire, and then they will trade him to the New York Jets.
According to @MatthewBerryTMR, rumors swirling at the combine included the Saints expectation that Derek Carr will un-retire and they will trade him to the #Jets pic.twitter.com/WLIBwRgSX4
— Optimistic Jets (@OptimisticJets) March 2, 2026
While this may not be the most appealing scenario for Jets fans, there could be potential upside.
Carr is an 11-year NFL veteran who spent nine seasons with the Oakland and later Las Vegas Raiders.
He earned four Pro Bowl selections with the Raiders, including three in his first four seasons. He also finished third in MVP voting in his third year.
Throughout his career, Carr consistently produced, surpassing 3,800 passing yards in seven of his 11 seasons. He was also regarded as a strong leader across the league.
He was also a bona fide leader throughout the NFL during his 11-year career.
The Jets have repeatedly attempted to develop young quarterbacks without success. Bringing in Carr, with his experience and leadership qualities, could provide the stability the franchise has lacked.
Berry emphasized that the observations he shared from the combine were not confirmed, but rather conversations he heard and chose to report.
Outside of the Jets, Carr is also listed by The Athletic’s Alec Lewis as a realistic quarterback option for the Minnesota Vikings.
