Derek Carr provides a telling update on his NFL future amid retirement plans.

Derek Carr has remained retired after opting out of football due to a shoulder injury last season. Now healthy, he hasn’t officially unretired, but he hasn’t ruled out a return either. While there has been interest from NFL teams, Carr is selective about the opportunity he would pursue, seeking a situation where he can contribute and win.

Carr spent most of his career with the Raiders, posting limited winning seasons, and his brief stint with the Saints did not yield a championship run. He confirmed that several teams reached out to gauge his interest, but he’s waiting for the right scenario before coming back to the field. “I never say never,” he said in an interview, adding that a few teams with solid programs contacted him. He emphasized a desire to win and to find a special opportunity that makes sense for both him and the franchise.

Is a return likely this season? At 35, Carr still has the physical ability to play quarterback, but the window for peak effectiveness is narrowing. A return this year would benefit from him finding a favorable fit with a team that can leverage his experience and leadership. Waiting for the right situation is sensible, but delaying could reduce the number of viable options over time, so the decision will hinge on finding a path where he can contribute immediately rather than join a rebuild or a clearly ineffective team.

Which teams could be in the mix? For a quick return, teams with an established starter or a need arising from injury or underperformance might show interest. Possible fits would be franchises with a strong organization, a need for a veteran presence, and a chance to compete for a playoff berth. For example, a club facing quarterback uncertainty or a transition at the position could consider adding a veteran with Carr’s experience. However, any potential move would depend on several factors, including team philosophy, roster health, and salary considerations.

Ultimately, Carr’s decision will balance the value of stepping back into a challenging, competitive environment with the opportunity to win and contribute immediately. He remains a quarterback with proven experience and leadership, and if the right situation presents itself, a return could be on the table. Until then, he continues to assess his options and remains open to a future that aligns with his goals of competitive success and personal fulfillment on the field.