Derek Carr could attempt an NFL comeback

After one year away from the NFL, Derek Carr may already be considering a return.

Carr could make an NFL comeback if presented with the right situation and coaching staff, according to Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Carr has remained in shape, and the shoulder injury he underwent surgery for last year has healed.

Several teams reached out to Carr during the season to gauge his interest in a return. The Cincinnati Bengals did so after Joe Burrow got hurt, as was previously reported, but at that time, Carr resisted any inquiries. Even now, he is still not actively trying to return, but is simply said to be open to it in the right scenario.

The New Orleans Saints still hold Carr’s rights, but after the emergence of Tyler Shough, they would likely be willing to let him move on for a reasonable price.

Carr, 34, retired last season after an 11-year career primarily spent with the Raiders. His best season came in 2016, when he finished third in MVP voting, but he established himself as a solid starter over the course of his career who could at least guide a team to the playoffs. Plenty of teams would have loved to have a quarterback of that caliber last season.