Derek Carr rumors: Former Raiders QB connected to Saints, Jets, Panthers in free agency, but will be ‘a long process’
It’s rare for even a coveted NFL starting quarterback to hit the open market, but that’s exactly what happened when Derek Carr was fired by the Raiders after nine seasons.
Both sides considered a deal, with Carr spending several days in New Orleans to visit the Saints, but his contract stood in the way of a deal.
Carr had a no-trade clause, and the remaining $40.4 million on his contract would have been guaranteed on Feb. 15 had he still been with the Raiders. After he told Las Vegas he would not accept a trade, the organization had no interest in being on the hook for that kind of money and let him go.
MORE: Why Raiders released Derek Carr after failed Saints deal
The move allows Carr to choose his next target and he can sign with either team immediately. But this is a process that will obviously take some time.
Carr’s decision also ties with Packers QB Aaron Rodgers still making his own decision about his future. Carr reckons he has admirers similar to Rodgers, particularly the Jets, so he could lose an option if Rodgers becomes available and New York is motivated to strike a deal with the Packers.
Follow the latest updates on Carr’s free-agent decision.
Latest rumors about Derek Carr
Tuesday February 20th
Carr’s brother David told NFL Network that free agency will be “a long process.”
“He wants to do his due diligence and see as many places as possible to get a feel for what the best place is going to be for him,” he added.
Carr visited the Saints before his release and spent time with the Jets over the weekend, but the Panthers are reportedly interested in the former Raiders quarterback and many other teams are facing uncertain quarterback situations.
MORE: Derek Carr landing spots: Jets, Saints among best fits as Raiders release longtime QB
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that while Carr’s Jets’ visit drew “rave reviews,” both sides have “several irons in the fire.” For the Jets, that could be Rodgers, while Carrs’ irons in the fire are the Saints and Panthers.
Saturday February 18th
Carr spent the weekend visiting the Jets, his first visit since his release. He was spotted having lunch with coach Robert Saleh and offense coordinator Nathaniel Hackett on Saturday.
The Jets have made it clear they will add a veteran quarterback this offseason and are reportedly interested in Rodgers, but Carr is the most viable alternative to Rodgers as the Packers quarterback makes his decision.
According to his brother, Carr “got together” with Saleh during his visit and is trying to figure out what New York’s offense will look like under Hackett.