Derek Carr announced his early retirement, citing his desire not to burden the New Orleans Saints’ cap space as a significant reason. He chose to forgo a $30-million salary for 2025, opting instead to keep a $10-million signing bonus, after deciding against surgery for a shoulder injury that would have prevented him from playing effectively. Carr, who had a 14-13 record with the Saints and missed seven games in the 2024 season, emphasized that his decision was about personal peace and the team’s best interests.



