There is some precedent for quarterbacks making a return to the NFL at age 35 or older. Tom Brady announced his retirement in February 2022 only to announce his return 40 days later. Brett Favre retired and returned multiple times prior to his final NFL season in 2010. But neither of those situations involved Carr's shoulder injury.

The NFL world was shocked on Saturday when Derek Carr announced his retirement after 11 seasons as a quarterback in the league. His departure from the game was due in large part to a serious injury to his throwing shoulder that likely would've kept him out for the entire 2025 season.

The New Orleans Saints lost veteran quarterback Derek Carr to retirement last weekend, putting their quarterback room for next season into question. New Orleans doesn't have too many experienced players on the roster,