What’s Derek Carr’s Legacy On The Las Vegas Raiders?

The legacy of Derek Carr with the Las Vegas Raiders is one of statistical dominance, franchise loyalty, and a bittersweet conclusion due to injury and early retirement. From his record-setting performances to his leadership through turbulent seasons, Carr remains a defining figure in the franchise’s modern era. This article delivers a detailed breakdown of Carr’s career, examining his accolades, records, and the mark he left on the Raiders organization before his recent decision to retire from the NFL.

Derek Carr’s Early Years with the Raiders

Derek Carr was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft with the 36th overall pick. The Fresno State standout was the fourth quarterback taken in that draft, but it did not take long for Carr to establish himself as the team’s starter. He was named the Week 1 starter as a rookie—marking the first time in franchise history that a rookie QB started the opening game. His first season closed with 3,270 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, displaying a solid foundation for what was to come.

Record-Setting Raider

By the time Derek Carr parted ways with the Raiders, he had left behind an unmatched statistical footprint. He holds the franchise record for career passing yards with 35,222 and career touchdown passes at 217. He also leads in completions (3,201) and passing attempts (4,958). In 2015, Carr became the first Raider to throw for over 30 touchdowns in a single season with 32 scoring strikes. He followed that by becoming the only Raiders quarterback to post four straight seasons with 3,900+ passing yards (2018–2021).

Pro Bowl Recognition

Carr’s leadership and stats earned him three Pro Bowl nods—in 2015, 2016, and 2017. His 2016 season was particularly notable as he threw for 3,937 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just 6 interceptions before suffering a broken fibula in Week 16. His stellar performance that year had the Raiders sitting at 12–3 before his injury derailed what could have been a deep playoff run. That season, he also led seven game-winning drives, tying him for the most in the NFL.

2016 MVP-Caliber Season

The 2016 campaign remains the pinnacle of Carr’s career. The Raiders finished 12–4, earning their first playoff berth since 2002. Carr posted a 63.8% completion rate, a 96.7 quarterback rating, and only six interceptions through 15 games. He ranked fifth in the NFL in fourth-quarter comebacks and was a serious MVP contender before the devastating injury in Week 16 against the Colts. Without Carr, the Raiders’ offense faltered in the playoffs, losing to the Texans in the Wild Card round.

Commitment to the Silver and Black

Throughout his nine seasons with the franchise, Carr remained loyal amid coaching changes, roster upheavals, and even the relocation from Oakland to Las Vegas. He started 142 games for the team—more than any other quarterback in Raiders history—and was consistently the face of the franchise during unstable years. His leadership was evident in the 2021 season, where Carr guided the team to a 10–7 record and a playoff appearance following the sudden resignation of head coach Jon Gruden and the arrest of WR Henry Ruggs III. In a year of chaos, Carr was a steady presence, throwing for 4,804 yards and 23 touchdowns.

$121.5 Million Extension in 2022

In April 2022, Carr signed a three-year, $121.5 million extension with the Raiders, including $65.28 million guaranteed. The deal made him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL at the time. It was a strong endorsement by the front office, recognizing his importance to the team. However, despite high expectations, the 2022 season did not go as planned. Carr threw 14 interceptions, including a career-high 3-pick game in Week 16, and was benched for the final two games of the season. This turn of events marked the first stage of failure of Carr’s Raiders tenure.

Release and New Chapter with the Saints

In February 2023, Carr was officially released by the Raiders and later signed a four-year, $150 million contract with the New Orleans Saints. The deal included $100 million in guarantees, positioning Carr as a franchise centerpiece yet again. He completed 3,878 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions in his lone full season with the Saints. Unfortunately, lingering injuries—including multiple concussions and shoulder issues—hindered his performance and led to early retirement, announced in May 2025.

Official Retirement Announcement

Derek Carr announced his retirement from the NFL at 34, citing recurring shoulder and head injuries as the main reason. Despite trying to push through during the 2024 season, doctors advised him to step away from the game. In a heartfelt statement, Carr thanked Raider Nation, the Saints organization, and his family for their unwavering support. His retirement sparked immediate debate about his legacy, especially considering his stats and impact on a historically volatile franchise.

Comparison to Raiders Quarterback History

When measured against Raiders legends like Ken Stabler, Jim Plunkett, and Rich Gannon, Carr’s numbers dominate. He surpasses all three in career passing yards, completions, and touchdowns for the franchise. Yet critics argue that he lacked postseason success, with a 0–1 playoff record in his only postseason appearance as a starter. Still, his statistical legacy and leadership during challenging years have solidified him as the franchise’s all-time passing leader—a title none of the other greats held as definitively. His place in Raiders history is undeniable.

Legacy Beyond the Stats

Carr’s importance transcends just numbers. He became the heart and soul of a team that was often in flux. His unwavering presence through nine seasons, multiple coaches, and even a city relocation helped stabilize the Raiders when the franchise needed a face. He was deeply involved in the community and regularly led offseason workouts, serving as a mentor to younger players. For a generation of Raiders fans, Carr is synonymous with grit, perseverance, and loyalty. The NFL draft kit from 2014 to 2022 simply would not be complete without Carr’s inclusion as a franchise cornerstone.

Future Hall of Fame Debate

The question of whether Derek Carr belongs in the Hall of Fame is contentious. While his stats are impressive—fifth all-time in passing yards among active quarterbacks at the time of his retirement—his lack of playoff success and Super Bowl rings may work against him. Nevertheless, Carr’s case is stronger when viewed through the lens of team stability, leadership, and franchise impact. His nine years as the starting quarterback, combined with every passing record in team history, keep him in the Hall of Very Good if not in Canton itself.

Final Thoughts on Carr’s Raiders Legacy

Derek Carr’s time with the Raiders was not always smooth, but it was consistently marked by effort, loyalty, and impressive production. He redefined the quarterback position for the franchise, surpassing every major statistical benchmark while enduring immense pressure and scrutiny. Though his career ended without a championship or prolonged playoff run, his contribution to the Raiders is indelible. Carr remains a symbol of dedication and professionalism—traits that Raiders fans and NFL historians alike will remember for years to come.