Derek Carr's desired contract numbers revealed

Carr was released by the Las Vegas Raiders on Feb. 14 in an expected move, after the four-time Pro Bowler declined to waive his no-trade clause with the team. Carr spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Raiders and is the franchise's all-time leader in completions (3,201), passing yards (35,222) and passing touchdowns (217).

In 15 games during his 2022 campaign, he posted the lowest completion percentage since his rookie season (60.8%) and matched last year's career high of 14 interceptions, despite playing in two fewer contests. Las Vegas went a disappointing 6-9 in his starts, and when he was benched ahead of Week 17, it ended a record streak of 91 consecutive starts that dated back to 2017.

The 31-year-old has already had visits with the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets since he hit free agency, and according to John Sigler of The Saints Wire, if Carr were to get $35 million, it would tie him with 34-year-old Kirk Cousins as the ninth-highest paid quarterback in the NFL (in terms of average annual value). Sigler notes that 28-year-old Jared Goff ($33.5 million) and 30-year-old Carson Wentz ($32 million) are next on the list.

Though both the Jets and Saints have been connected to Carr in recent days, New York may be the early frontrunner for acquiring the Fresno State product. Earlier this month, the Jets hired Todd Downing to be their next passing game coordinator, giving "Gang Green" a connection to Carr.

Prior to serving as the Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator, Downing was Carr's quarterbacks coach with the Raiders from 2015 to 2016 and the team's offensive coordinator in 2017.

Regardless of where Carr lands this offseason, it's been reported that a decision may not be coming soon. Former No. 1 overall pick David Carr—Derek's older brother—said earlier this week that the free agency ride for his sibling was going to be a "long process."

Buckle up.