David Carr says brother Derek’s NFL return unlikely

By Ross Jackson

Derek Carr’s return to the NFL is unlikely, according to his brother, David Carr.

Things could get interesting if former New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr, who announced his retirement last weekend, decides to try for a comeback. Especially if that were to happen ahead of the 2026 season. 

The Saints would still own the rights to his non-guaranteed salary that season, and therefore, the two would either have to work out a release or work together to facilitate a trade. 

The money situation would be workable, but it would certainly reignite some fireworks around the situation, which already played out awkwardly. 

David Carr joined The Insiders on NFL Network, where he was asked about a potential return for his younger brother. 

“I believe that he is done,” David Carr said. “I know Derek loves the game,but here’s what I’ll tell you: I think, more than anything, he loved the teammates. He loved being around the personalities … I can tell in the last couple of days that he’s definitely done playing and he’s moved on.”

So, don’t expect a comeback for Derek Carr anytime soon, or the potential draft capital the Saints could get from it. If what his older brother says is true, Carr’s playing days are officially through. 

However, it’s worth not taking anytime here at face value, as Carr did reportedly explore other playing destinations soon before his injury and subsequent retirement were announced.