A Career Review Of The Rise And Journey Of Derek Carr

Steady ascent and unfulfilled playoff promise—that defines Derek’s 11-year NFL career. Marked by perseverance, passion, and missed postseason opportunities. He brought stability and leadership to a chaotic Raiders franchise, becoming a symbol of hope during its most turbulent years.

Through injuries, coaching changes, and relentless scrutiny, Carr stayed loyal and resilient, always showing up and giving everything he had. His professionalism and commitment earned widespread respect as a leader on and off-field.

Let’s take a fresh and revised look at Derek Carr’s career…

2014-2017: Rising Star and Untimely Setbacks

Selected in the 2nd round as the 36th overall pick of the 2014 NFL Draft, his rookie season was a rough one. Head Coach Dennis Allen was fired after a 0-4 start and replaced by OLine Coach Tony Sparano. Although, despite a 3-13 season, he showed flashes of becoming a franchise starting QB.

Under Head Coach Jack Del Rio, the next two seasons were a rapid ascension into a bright young star in the NFL. From a 7-9 to a 12-4 record, he was bound to become the face of the franchise and bring much needed stability. The kind of one Raider’s fans had yearned for so long.

But a terrible injury occurred after a broken leg due to a sack against the Colts in Week 16 of the 2016 NFL Season. That injury meant his and the Raiders´ season were over. The emotional damage was done and nothing could repair it.

The 2017 season brought many expectations, knowing that last season the team had a playoff berth and a legit shot to the Super Bowl. But the team regressed. Carr battled injuries again, and a 6-10 record meant a clean slate for the organization.

2018-2021: Steady, Resilient and Dependable

The organization looked to an old friend and decided to hire Jon Gruden as the Head Coach of the Oakland Raiders in 2018. The team faced many changes and despite a 4-12 record, Carr posted career highs in completion and yards. Showcasing fantastic leadership and team command.

Derek kept improving statistically and got surrounded by a fantastic group of young offensive weapons for the 2019 NFL Season. The team had a 7-9 record to end the season and looked to have a bright future ahead with Carr being the leader.

First year in Las Vegas and Derek had his best scoring season, with 30 total TDs as the Raiders starting QB since that injury against the Colts. Only problem? That was also the season with the most turnovers, with 17. A record of 8-8 but a much improved pocket presence and deep balls.

2021 was a tumultuous season due to the resignation of Jon Gruden and the incident of WR Henry Ruggs III. Special Teams Coach Rich Bisaccia became the interim HC and led the Raiders to a 10-7 record and a playoff berth. And despite all of that, a new, clean slate was on the way.

2022: The Last Dance As A Raider

Expectations were high and rising after the hirings of Josh McDaniels, Dave Ziegler, and the trade of Davante Adams. McDaniels who won 6 Super Bowls as the OC for the Patriots was now the Head Coach of the Raiders.

Carr’s best friend and favorite college receiver, Davante Adams, joined the Raiders via 2022 1st and 2nd round picks. And after, despite all those talented additions, “inconsistency” was the key word to describe this whole season.

Although Carr’s and Adams chemistry shined through the season, the team lost many double-digit led games. Frustrations were high as the team lacked rhythm and tempo, but most importantly, leadership changes loomed.

The season was about to end and McDaniels took a bold decision. He sat and benched Derek Carr for the last two games of the season. Meaning Carr was out and that marked the end of a 9-year career as a Raider.

2023-2024: Saints Era And Retirement

An old friend gave him a call and that was Dennis Allen. He was the Head Coach in New Orleans, and that’s how Derek became starting Quarterback for the Saints. Carr led the team to a 9-8 record in his first season and narrowly missed the playoffs.

Expectations were soaring high next season, as it looked like the Saints had a legit chance to win the NFC South. With a much improved team and chemistry developing, the Saints 2024 season started with them whooping some butt.

But after a 5-5 start, Derek suffered a concussion, left hand and shoulder injury. And while he had injuries before, none of them were like these. He would miss multiple games, and it meant he was out for the second half and rest of the season.

While ramping up for the preparation of the 2025 NFL Season, Derek started to experience more shoulder pain. Although he did some rehab, none of it guaranteed he would return to full strength. And after reflection, prayer and discussion with this wife Heather, Derek Carr decided to ride into the sunset…

What Could Be Next For Him?

Derek Dallas Carr is a devoted husband to his wife Heather, and they have 4 children named Dallas, Deker, Deakon and Brooklyn. He’s a committed Christian and has been an active preacher for many times during his life.

He preaches at his local Las Vegas church and uses his platform to share the gospel with a wide audience. Carr actively participates in ministry, including the Altar Conference and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, inspiring youth with his testimony.

Enjoy retirement, Derek. Be great, like you’ve always been…