The Unfolding Saga of Derek Carr’s Shoulder Injury and Retirement
A Sudden Turn of Events
In the world of professional football, injuries are an unfortunate but inevitable part of the game. For New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr, the 2025 offseason brought an unexpected twist. Carr, who had been dealing with a shoulder ailment on his throwing arm, found himself at a crossroads. The injury, first reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport on April 11, cast a shadow over his 2025 campaign. The Saints, along with Carr, were left waiting for clarity on his condition, with the general manager Mickey Loomis stating that the team was in a holding pattern until more information became available.
The Decision to Retire
The situation took a dramatic turn when Carr announced his retirement from the NFL. After 11 seasons in the league, Carr decided to hang up his cleats due to a shoulder injury that would require surgery. This decision, confirmed by multiple NFL Network insiders, marked the end of an era for the veteran quarterback. Carr’s retirement was a shock to many, as he had been exploring all options to return to the field, including another surgery on the same arm he had previously had work done on.
The Impact on the Saints
The retirement of Derek Carr leaves the New Orleans Saints in a precarious position. The team will need to start fresh at the quarterback position for the 2025 season and beyond. Carr’s injury and subsequent retirement have thrown the Saints’ plans into disarray, forcing them to reassess their strategy for the upcoming season. The quarterback position, once a stable point for the team, is now a major question mark.
A Look Back at Carr’s Injury History
Carr’s shoulder injury is not an isolated incident. Throughout his career, he has dealt with various injuries that have impacted his performance. In 2024, he missed seven games due to oblique and hand injuries, with Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener stepping in as his replacements. Carr’s last shoulder injury occurred in 2023 when he sprained his AC joint at the beginning of the season, but he managed to play through the pain without missing any games.
The Road to Retirement
Carr’s decision to retire was not made lightly. He had been dealing with pain in his right shoulder since late March, which ultimately led to his retirement announcement. The injury, which required surgery, was the final straw for the 34-year-old quarterback. Despite exploring all options to return to the field, Carr decided that retirement was the best course of action for his long-term health.
The Aftermath
The retirement of Derek Carr has left a void in the Saints’ quarterback room. The team will need to find a suitable replacement, and the 2025 NFL Draft presents an opportunity to do so. Free agents like Aaron Rodgers or draft prospects like Shedeur Sanders could be options for New Orleans. The Saints’ draft plans, however, remain unaffected by Carr’s retirement, according to general manager Mickey Loomis.
The Final Chapter
Derek Carr’s retirement marks the end of a storied career in the NFL. From his days with the Raiders to his time with the Saints, Carr has left an indelible mark on the league. His decision to retire due to a shoulder injury that required surgery is a testament to his dedication to the game and his commitment to his health.
Conclusion: A New Era for the Saints
As the New Orleans Saints prepare for the 2025 season, they face a significant challenge in finding a new quarterback to lead the team. Derek Carr’s retirement, though unexpected, opens the door for new talent to emerge. The Saints will need to adapt and find a way to move forward without their veteran leader. The retirement of Derek Carr is a bittersweet moment for the Saints and their fans, but it also signals the beginning of a new era for the franchise.
