• Derek Carr could unretire for the 2026 NFL season if the right situation and coaching staff emerge.
  • Four teams most frequently linked as fits: Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins.
  • Each destination offers a different role: immediate starter, camp competition, or veteran stopgap.
  • Reports from NFL Network insiders suggest Carr remains near the top of the offseason quarterback market.

H2: Why Carr’s potential return matters
Derek Carr shocked the league when he announced his retirement in May 2025 after dealing with a shoulder injury. Nine months later, NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo reported on Super Bowl Sunday that Carr could unretire for the 2026 season if an appealing opportunity presents itself. At 35 in March and a four-time Pro Bowler, Carr would immediately rank among the more attractive veteran options for teams with quarterback questions.

H2: 1) Pittsburgh Steelers — veteran bridge or starter
Pittsburgh has leaned on experienced veterans at quarterback in recent seasons and could be open to another short-term solution. Carr would provide a proven starter in a roster that expects to compete immediately after an AFC North title run. The fit depends on whether Aaron Rodgers returns; if not, Carr could step in as a bridge starter or compete for a longer-term role under coach Mike McCarthy. The Steelers’ receiving weapons, including DK Metcalf, could make the transition easier for Carr.

H2: 2) Minnesota Vikings — competition and weapons
Minnesota could offer Carr a low-risk route back with a chance to start. J.J. McCarthy did not solidify himself as the franchise QB in his first full season, and the Vikings may seek veteran stability while evaluating young talent. Carr would push McCarthy in camp, bring unquestioned experience and throw to elite targets like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson. For a player willing to compete, the Vikings present an attractive mix of roster talent and opportunity.

H2: 3) New York Jets — immediate starting job, high pressure
The Jets remain in urgent need of dependable quarterback play after a difficult season. Carr would likely walk in as the starter in New York, a chance he considered during the 2023 market. This would be a high-pressure job with a talented roster but recent instability under center. For Carr, the Jets offer immediate playing time but a challenging environment to restore his reputation.

H2: 4) Miami Dolphins — contender with a missing piece
Miami is expected to move on from Tua Tagovailoa and could be left with young Quinn Ewers as its top signal-caller. The Dolphins boast a strong supporting cast — Jaylen Waddle, De’Von Achane and more — and would benefit from a veteran who can manage a high-powered offense. Carr would need to buy into new coach Jeff Hafley’s plan, but the Dolphins could be a short-path return to contention for the veteran QB.

H3: Bottom line
With few premium quarterback options expected in this offseason, Carr would slot near the top of the market if he chooses to return. Teams needing an experienced, steady presence under center — whether as a starter or a bridge — are likely to lead the charge for his services. Reports from league insiders suggest the ball is now in Carr’s court: unretire if the right fit appears.

Image Referance: https://www.nfl.com/news/derek-carr-potential-landing-spots-four-future-teams-if-qb-decides-to-unretire