by The NFL quarterback carousel is spinning faster than ever as the 2026 offseason kicks into high gear. While much of the focus remains on the upcoming draft and high-profile free agents, a surprising name has emerged from a brief retirement to shake up the league’s landscape. After stepping away from the gridiron in May 2025 due to a significant shoulder injury, a potential Derek Carr NFL return is now officially on the table, provided the four-time Pro Bowler finds a situation that aligns with his championship ambitions.
The “Never Say Never” Philosophy
For fans of the veteran signal-caller, the news of a possible Derek Carr NFL return shouldn’t come as a total shock. Speaking on his Home Grown podcast alongside his brother, former NFL quarterback David Carr, Derek admitted that his competitive fire is far from extinguished. “Would I do it? Yes. Would I do it for anybody? Absolutely not,” Carr stated during a recent episode, though he was quick to temper expectations by adding that he wouldn’t suit up for just any franchise. This “never say never” approach has reignited discussions across the league about which teams might be one veteran quarterback away from a title.
Health First: The Shoulder Update
A major hurdle for any Derek Carr NFL return has always been the physical toll of an eleven-season career. Carr’s initial decision to retire was driven by a labral tear and degenerative changes in his rotator cuff that threatened his ability to perform at a high level. However, recent reports indicate that a year of rest and intensive rehabilitation has worked wonders. His brother David recently teased that Derek is throwing as hard as ever, and league insiders have confirmed that Carr currently has “no limitations,” making him a highly attractive “plug-and-play” option for a desperate contender.
Seeking a Super Bowl Contender
The most intriguing condition for a Derek Carr NFL return is his demand for a winning culture. Carr has made it clear that at 34 years old, he has no interest in leading a rebuilding project or serving as a mentor for a struggling roster. He is specifically eyeing teams that are “Super Bowl ready,” looking to join a team with elite defensive and skill-position talent already in place. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Indianapolis Colts, and Minnesota Vikings have already been floated as potential landing spots that meet Carr’s strict criteria.
Potential Landing Spots for Derek Carr in 2026
| Team | Why It Fits | Key Factors |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | High-level defense and DK Metcalf | Uncertainty around Aaron Rodgers’ future |
| Indianapolis Colts | Top-tier OL and Jonathan Taylor | Daniel Jones’ injury recovery timeline |
| Minnesota Vikings | Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison | Need for a veteran to push J.J. McCarthy |
| New York Jets | Strong defense and elite playmakers | Desperate need for consistent QB play |
The Saints’ Contractual Hurdle
Even if a team meets his criteria, a Derek Carr NFL return involves a complex dance with the New Orleans Saints. Because Carr retired with two years remaining on his contract, the Saints still technically hold his playing rights. While New Orleans has found success with rookie Tyler Shough, they would likely seek draft compensation in a trade before allowing Carr to suit up elsewhere. Fortunately for interested suitors, experts suggest the price wouldn’t be “unreasonable” for a player who is no longer part of New Orleans’ long-term plans.
The Raiders Reunion Rumors
Of course, no discussion of a Derek Carr NFL return would be complete without mentioning the Las Vegas Raiders. With his former offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak now expected to take the head coaching reins in Vegas, the rumor mill has set social media ablaze. While the Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick and are expected to draft Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, the idea of Carr returning to his original home to bridge the gap while chasing a ring remains a fascinating, if unlikely, narrative.
Final Thoughts: A Veteran Solution
Ultimately, the prospect of a Derek Carr NFL return offers a rare “low-risk, high-reward” scenario for a league starved of quality quarterback play. If his shoulder truly is back to 100%, Carr provides a level of experience, locker-room leadership, and statistical consistency that few available passers can match. As the free agency period approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see if a true contender makes the call that brings one of the game’s most resilient players back to the huddle.
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