Saints QB Derek Carr Retires Giving Up $30M Due Shoulder Injury

Derek Carr, the New Orleans Saints quarterback, shocked the NFL by retiring at age 34 due to a shoulder injury that required surgery, which would have sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. Instead of undergoing surgery and collecting a guaranteed $30 million salary while unable to play, Carr chose to retire, citing a moral decision not to take the Saints' money while injured and unable to contribute. Carr emphasized that his career was never about money, and after earning nearly $200 million over 11 years, he prioritized his personal peace and well-being over financial gain. The Saints allowed Carr to keep a $10 million roster bonus, but he forfeited the rest of his 2025 salary, freeing up cap space for the team. Carr expressed contentment with his decision, enjoying time with his family and affirming that his heart was at peace with retiring. His agent recently checked in on him to confirm his comfort with the retirement, suggesting the decision is likely permanent.