Derek Carr Leaves Door Open to NFL Return Months After Retirement

Derek Carr said he would not rule out a return to the NFL on Friday, leaving open the possibility of a comeback months after retiring because of a shoulder injury and degenerative changes to his rotator cuff.

The 34-year-old former New Orleans Saints and Las Vegas Raiders starter officially announced his retirement on May 10 and forfeited a reported $30 million in guaranteed salary for the 2025 season. Carr said he accepted a $10 million roster bonus when he stepped away and has since taken on television work and new pursuits while rehabbing his shoulder.

Speaking with broadcaster Dan Patrick, Carr said, "I wouldn't say never. Because I've learned that when I say never, it usually happens. I think we've all probably learned that." He added he is training because he enjoys it and because staying ready is part of his approach to life and faith, but he was explicit that a return is not imminent. "I'll be ready, but I'm not coming back. Right now, today, I'm not coming back," Carr said.

Carr said he still throws occasionally "with my kids and to my buddy for fun" as part of ongoing shoulder rehab. He acknowledged that surgery and attempting to play through the injury were considered options before he elected to retire, and that he did not want to return to competition until he was confident he could perform at the necessary level.

The quarterback spent 11 NFL seasons between the Raiders and Saints, establishing himself as a steady starter and playoff quarterback in several campaigns. He has worked as an analyst for the league's season opener this year while remaining publicly candid about the physical realities that led to his May decision.

Since retiring, Carr has embraced new routines away from football. In interviews he has described "mini farming" at his home — tending vegetables such as watermelon, zucchini, squash, broccoli, spinach and tomatoes, and keeping hens that produce about eight eggs daily. He said the change of pace helps fill the daily training and preparation routine that defined his summers as a player.

Carr also said part of his post-career focus is on family and perspective, teaching his children not to become attached to fame or money. He has not identified any teams that have contacted him about a potential return nor offered a timeline for re-entering the league.

Carr's comments follow a growing trend of retired NFL players weighing returns after short retirements, though each case depends on the player's health, contract situation and team interest. Carr's public rehabilitation and continued throwing will be watched closely by teams weighing veteran quarterback options, but for now the former starter framed his status as one of open possibility rather than imminent action.

He declined to set a deadline or make firm commitments, saying simply that he loves training and will remain prepared if circumstances change. For the moment, Carr's focus remains on recovery, family life and new pursuits outside of professional football.