Derek Carr Comeback? Mike Garafolo Reports Veteran QB Seeking NFL Return

LAS VEGAS — The NFL’s quarterback carousel just found its biggest wildcard. After a 10-month retirement that many thought was permanent, former Saints and Raiders signal-caller Derek Carr is reportedly preparing for a 2026 comeback. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo broke the news this morning, confirming that the 34-year-old veteran has fully rehabbed his shoulder and is throwing with the same velocity that defined his 41,245 career passing yards and 257 touchdowns.

“Pro Bowl Peak” Form

Carr walked away from the New Orleans Saints in May 2025 following a grueling battle with a labral tear and rotator cuff damage. He didn’t want to just “take the team’s money” while sitting on IR. Instead, he took the year to heal. Sources close to the QB say the time off worked. Garafolo reports that Carr’s arm strength is back to a “Pro Bowl peak.” He has spent the last three months in private sessions in Southern California, looking leaner and more explosive than his final days in the Big Easy. While he isn’t desperate for a job, the itch to compete hasn’t faded. He wants a contender, and he’s willing to wait for the right phone call.

“A few months ago, I said ‘never say never’ because life has a way of proving you wrong. My shoulder feels the best it has since 2016. If the right situation and the right coaching staff are there, I’m ready to help a team win a championship.”
— Derek Carr, via the ‘Home Grown’ Podcast

The Landing Spots: Pittsburgh or a Sin City Reunion?

The 2026 QB market is a mess. Aaron Rodgers is currently holding the Pittsburgh Steelers hostage as he decides on his own retirement. If Rodgers hangs them up, Mike McCarthy needs a veteran who can win now. Pittsburgh has built a run-heavy roster that fits Carr’s style perfectly. Then there is the Las Vegas Raiders. With the Raiders likely taking Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in April, the franchise needs a mentor. Carr spent nine seasons in that building. A return to the desert to shepherd a rookie would be the ultimate full-circle moment for the franchise leader in almost every passing category.

The Saints still hold Carr’s rights due to his tolled contract, but they won’t stand in his way. New Orleans is committed to Tyler Shough, who turned heads as a rookie in 2025. Expect a trade for a late-round pick to be the price of admission for any team wanting Carr’s services this fall.