Former Saints QB Derek Carr just teased potential return to the NFL, and New Orleans has a reason to hope that he does
The New Orleans Saints felt a fair share on retirements this offseason. Terron Armstead hung up his cleats. Tyrann Mathieu said he had concluded his NFL career. For former quarterback Derek Carr, he also retired earlier this year - citing his injured shoulder as a major reason for his decision.
Now, when asked about how much he considers playing again, the long-time starter is keeping an open mind. In reality, New Orleans should be rooting for him to come back to the NFL.
Possible return from retirement for Derek Carr
In an interview on the Dan Patrick Show, the former Saints quarterback didn't completely close the door on a return to the field. He is allowing that door to remain open, for now at least.
Carr also mentioned that it wasn't easy to give up the money from his Saints contract when he chose to retire.
“I throw a football every now and then with my kids and to my buddy for fun because it’s part of my rehab for my shoulder…I’m still doing those things, I’ve always felt like, even though I’m done, if God wanted me to do it, I gotta be ready. I don’t want to go out there and not be ready. I’ll be ready, but I’m not coming back. Right now, today, I’m not coming back.” -- Derek Carr via Dan Patrick Show
The Saints should actually be open to this sort of change of heart from the veteran because of a potential trade. New Orleans could potentially look to deal him elsewhere, depending on interest and how soon he would return from retirement. That trade wouldn't land them much, expect maybe a late round draft pick. That's better than nothing, though.
"Carr ultimately retired having collected more than $205 million in career earnings through 11 NFL seasons for the Saints and the Raiders, according to Spotrac." -- Bleacher Report
Regardless, Carr doesn't have a future in New Orleans as the QB any longer. The team drafted Tyler Shough in round two of this year's NFL Draft, and they could also be in a position early in round one next year to draft another potential long-term answer at QB. It all depends on how this season shakes out for the Saints, the first with Kellen Moore at head coach.
“Rams Head Coach Sean McVay’s Bold Statement: ‘We’re Coming to Nashville to Dominate’ – Rams Ready for Titans Showdown”

“With a Strong Offense Led by Davante Adams, Rams Look to Make a Statement Against the Titans”
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay is setting the tone for his team's highly anticipated Week 2 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. In a statement that’s making waves ahead of Monday Night Football, McVay boldly declared,
The Rams, fresh off a solid win in Week 1, are brimming with confidence. With veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford at the helm and the addition of superstar wide receiver Davante Adams, the Rams’ offense is poised to light up Nissan Stadium.
Davante Adams Adds Firepower to the Rams’ Offense
Adams, traded from the Green Bay Packers in the offseason, is already making a huge impact. In his Rams debut, Adams proved he’s more than capable of being a top target in McVay’s high-octane offense. Stafford is building a strong rapport with the 3-time All-Pro, and Adams is showing exactly why he’s one of the best receivers in the league.
"He brings that element of winning one-on-one matchups on the outside,” Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur said. “We saw it in Week 1, and we're expecting that all season long.”
Adams’ ability to make big plays in key moments will be crucial as the Rams look to overpower the Titans in this critical AFC-NFC showdown.
Injuries Won’t Hold the Rams Back
On the defensive side of the ball, the Rams are facing some challenges with injuries. Offensive linemen Kevin Dotson and Steve Avila are nursing ankle sprains, leaving them questionable for the Titans game. Despite these setbacks, McVay has no intention of backing down.
“We’ve got depth,” McVay said, staying optimistic about his team’s ability to adjust. “We’ve been preparing for this. Injuries are part of the game, but it doesn’t change our mentality. We’re ready for whatever comes our way.”
The Titans' Challenge
The Titans, coming off a tough loss to the Miami Dolphins in Week 1, are looking to bounce back. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill will need to step up and find ways to beat the Rams' defensive line, led by Aaron Donald. With an offense that includes Derrick Henry and a stout defense, Tennessee will look to turn the tide in front of their home crowd.
But with McVay’s bold declaration and the Rams’ explosive offensive weapons, the Titans will have their hands full trying to contain the firepower of Los Angeles.
A Must-Watch Matchup
This game has all the ingredients of an instant classic. The Rams’ high-flying offense against a Titans defense that’s looking to bounce back. A confident McVay leading the charge, backed by one of the most talented rosters in the league. It’s going to be a battle, and if McVay’s words are anything to go by, the Rams are ready to make their mark.
Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM PDT, and fans can expect fireworks as both teams fight for early-season momentum.