Carr Declines Surgery, Chooses Retirement Over Inactivity
Derek Carr shocked the NFL world last month when he announced his retirement, a decision that included passing up $30 million by opting not to undergo surgery that would have sidelined him for the 2025 season. “That part was tough because I didn’t want to have surgery and just sit there, and it sounds crazy but, just take the Saints money,” Carr told David Rumsey of Front Office Sports.
Carr made his decision on May 10, framing it as one that served the best interests of both himself and the New Orleans Saints. “I wouldn’t have been able to play if I had the surgery,” Carr said. “And then if I tried to play with it, I wasn’t near 100%, and so that doesn’t help them, either. I just felt like it was the right thing to do for myself and for the team.”
Saints and Carr Reach Mutual Agreement
Both Carr and the Saints agreed on his retirement, which meant he left $30 million in guaranteed money on the table. The team also chose not to pursue the $10 million roster bonus that would typically be forfeited upon retirement.
“I never played just for the money,” Carr said. “I had a whole bunch of people tell me how crazy I was, and ‘Man, I would never have done that.’ That’s all cool, but I’ve gained all these things that the world has to offer, and it doesn’t really do anything for your heart. I knew my heart was at peace, and that’s really all that mattered.”
Having earned over $200 million during his career, Carr is in a position to comfortably transition into post-football life. Alongside his brother, NFL Network analyst David Carr, he has launched a YouTube channel and appears content with his new direction.
A Peaceful Transition Away From Football
Carr reflected on his decision with a sense of peace and satisfaction, sharing a recent exchange with his agent: “My agent literally texted me a few days ago and he said, Hey, just checking it in. How’s everything? You still feel comfortable with the decision?”
“And I sent him a picture of me on the beach with my two kids playing. And I said, ‘This beats an OTA any day.’ And he said, ‘Yeah, I thought so,'” Carr said. “So, I’m doing great and have thoroughly enjoyed being home.”
Though speculation may arise if a contending team loses its quarterback to injury, Carr, at 34, does not currently appear inclined to return. For now, he is content with his choice and enjoying life away from the field.
