Derek Carr’s decision to retire from the NFL may not have been a complete shock after recent developments, but its finality still caught many by surprise. The 34-year-old quarterback’s retirement is especially striking after revealing the extent of the physical issues he’s been battling.
In a statement released by the New Orleans Saints, Carr shared his decision, acknowledging his wife Heather and their family in the process: “After prayerful reflection and discussions with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the NFL. Over the last 11 years, we’ve been incredibly blessed, and we remain deeply grateful for this journey. I’m at a loss for words to thank the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, staff, and especially the fans who made this experience so special. Your unwavering support has meant everything to us.”
Carr’s departure brings more than just personal impact—it has rippling effects, particularly in New Orleans. For the Saints, this marks a pivotal moment, and with it comes the arrival of new faces and shifting dynamics.
Winners and Losers of Carr’s Retirement
Among the potential winners is the Saints’ recent second-round pick, who now has a clear path to starting in 2025. While Carr’s availability was already uncertain for the upcoming season, this retirement solidifies the rookie’s chances to step into the role. The 25-year-old quarterback, after a college career marred by injuries, started 12 games for Louisville in 2024, marking his best season. With a strong arm, maturity, and impressive intelligence, he’s positioned to lead the Saints, especially considering the struggles of quarterbacks Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler.
Looking beyond New Orleans, Carr’s retirement could reshape the NFC South. The division has long been dominated by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but with fresh quarterbacks and rising coaches in Atlanta and Carolina, both teams are poised to challenge for divisional supremacy. The Saints, who have hovered around a .500 record since Drew Brees retired, may now be forced into a major rebuild.
Is Arch Manning the Future?
And then there’s Arch Manning, the presumed future star of the NFL and nephew of legendary quarterbacks Peyton and Eli. Speculation about his potential entry into the draft had been growing, but with the Saints potentially falling into a rebuilding phase, the 2026 NFL draft could see Manning landing back home in New Orleans—replacing a legacy that began with his grandfather, Archie Manning, in the 1970s. Should the Saints tank in 2025 and secure the No. 1 pick, the stage could be set for Arch to revive the team and usher in a new era.
Other Possible Moves
As for other future considerations, some fans are wondering if veteran players like Aaron Rodgers might find their way to New Orleans. While a Rodgers-Saints pairing might seem appealing, it’s hard to imagine that even a quarterback of Rodgers’ caliber could turn around the Saints’ fortunes without significant improvements to the roster.
Veterans on the Saints’ roster, like defensive end Cam Jordan and linebacker Demario Davis, may also find themselves reconsidering their future with the team. With the Saints needing to rebuild, some of these players may be traded, or in some cases, may ask for a change of scenery as the team starts to stockpile draft picks and reshuffle its cap space.
The Road Ahead for New Orleans
The biggest question for the Saints now lies in the leadership of head coach Kellen Moore. Having recently won a Super Bowl as the Eagles’ offensive coordinator, Moore now faces the challenge of leading the Saints in an uncertain time. Though he may have the potential for future success, this season could be one of transition and growing pains, requiring Moore to balance team morale and expectations.
Carr’s Career and Legacy
Finally, there’s Derek Carr. A four-time Pro Bowler, Carr’s career had its ups and downs. Despite numerous struggles on poor teams, he remained a strong and consistent performer. His retirement comes after dealing with a significant shoulder injury that required surgery. The Saints revealed that scans showed a torn labrum and degenerative rotator cuff changes, leading to the difficult decision. Though Carr leaves the NFL with impressive passing records for the Raiders and a single playoff appearance, his career will be remembered as one of unfulfilled promise.
Carr’s decision to retire may have caught many off guard, but it marks the end of an era for the Saints and raises questions about the future of the team, the NFC South, and perhaps a new generation of quarterbacks like Arch Manning.
