Saints Quarterback Derek Carr Retires Leaving $30M Salary on Table

Derek Carr retired from the NFL in May 2025 due to a severe shoulder injury that required surgery, which would have sidelined him for the entire upcoming season. Rather than undergoing surgery and collecting his $30 million base salary from the New Orleans Saints while unable to play, Carr chose to forgo the money, keeping only his $10 million signing bonus. He explained that his decision was motivated by a desire not to take up the team's salary cap space unnecessarily and to do what was best for both himself and the Saints. Carr emphasized that he never played just for money and felt at peace with his choice, enjoying his time away from football with his family. His retirement leaves the Saints with a quarterback vacancy, as they rely on unproven players like Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler while undergoing a team rebuild. Despite speculation about a possible return, Carr affirmed he is comfortable with his decision and is relishing his post-NFL life.