Derek Carr makes himself available to the Raiders following Kirk Cousins' issues: "I work out six times a week"
Raiders could have another quarterback option as Derek Carr makes his feelings clear
Derek Carr hasn’t ruled out returning to the NFL, and the Las Vegas Raiders may have reason to consider what that means as questions continue to surround Kirk Cousins’ future.
Speaking on the Get Got Podcast with Marshawn Lynch and Mike Robinson , the former Raiders quarterback expressed confidence in his ability to compete again, insisting that retirement hasn’t stopped him from maintaining his fitness or preparing for another opportunity.
“It’s all about just taking care of the football, just being able to see the defense and know where to go with the football on time,” said Carr .
“And so I think I could still do that? Absolutely. I could do it at a high level. I still can rip it. I work out six times a week. I take care of my body just like I used to, just for overall health.”
Carr's comments are particularly interesting given the uncertainty surrounding the Raiders' current quarterback situation. He spent nine seasons in Las Vegas before moving to the New Orleans Saints. However, his time in New Orleans ended after the 2024 season when a right shoulder injury prompted him to retire.
He finished his NFL career with 41,245 passing yards, 257 touchdowns and 112 interceptions, establishing himself as one of the franchise's most productive quarterbacks.
Carr had previously disclosed that several teams contacted him during the offseason to discuss a possible comeback. Although he refused to identify the interested franchises, he described them as good football teams and suggested he'd only consider returning for a special opportunity.
Raiders face growing quarterback questions as Cousins struggles
Las Vegas started the season impressively, collecting three consecutive victories before suffering four straight defeats. Despite Cousins recording 16 touchdown passes and 1,877 passing yards through seven games, the team's declining results have raised questions about whether a change under center could become necessary.
Rookie Fernando Mendoza has emerged as a potential alternative, with some analysts believing the Raiders should consider giving him an opportunity sooner rather than later.
Head coach Klint Kubiak , however, has publicly backed Cousins , confirming that the veteran will remain the starter against the New York Jets.
“[Cousins is] playing at a very high level, and he’s got to continue to do that for us to win,” Kubiak said on Monday. “We got to keep helping all the areas around him. [I’m] excited for him to go play against the Jets.”
Mendoza has received limited playing time, meaning an immediate promotion could carry considerable risks as he continues adjusting to the professional game.
Meanwhile, Cousins ' potential availability has attracted attention ahead of the November 10 trade deadline. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler assigned the quarterback just a 20% chance of being traded, identifying the Carolina Panthers, New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings as possible destinations.
Fowler also pointed out that Cousins ' restructured contract, which includes a $1.3 million base salary, could make him an appealing option.
Nevertheless, the Raiders haven't indicated that they're planning an especially active deadline, while quarterback vacancies around the league remain limited.
Las Vegas appears committed to Cousins , but another defeat could intensify the debate surrounding its quarterback plans.
