One highly-discussed option at quarterback for the New York Jets in the 2023 offseason is nine-year veteran, Derek Carr. Now, he is essentially a lock to be available, whether it be through a trade or as a free agent if the Las Vegas Raiders ultimately release him.
Earlier today, the Raiders officially benched Carr. This comes as a result of the fact that he has $40.4 million for 2023, which becomes guaranteed if he cannot pass a physical. In essence, the Raiders are making it clear that Carr is not a part of their future. Also, Carr will likely have no interest in wanting to now play for them next year.
- Jets trade down & take standout offensive tackle and wide receiver in New York Post NFL mock draft
- Jets to hold 2nd meeting with star Alabama offensive lineman days before 2024 NFL Draft
- Jets superstar QB spotted working out ahead of 2024 training camp
Derek Carr will likely be available for the New York Jets:
Carr has spent all nine years of his NFL career with the Raiders, starting 142 total games and at least 15 each of his nine seasons.
Statistically, he has a career completion percentage of 64.6, averages over 3,900 yards per season, and 24 touchdowns a year. He has one impressive touchdown to interception ratio over his career of 217-99. Over his nine-year NFL career, Carr has averaged 7.1 yards per attempt and has a 91.8 quarterback rating.
The main holdup with Carr that will be brought up is his underwhelming career record of 63-79. As just noted, though, Carr’s stats are more than enticing for a Jets franchise in dire need of a quarterback.
Carr did just sign an extension with the Raiders last April for three years, worth $121.5 million. The deal did consist of a no-trade clause. Pair that with knowing Carr’s 2023 salary ($32.9 million) plus $7.5 million of his 2024 salary becomes guaranteed in February (on the 15th), and it makes this situation that much more intriguing and could lead to a release.
Carr is accomplished with three Pro Bowls (2015-17) and has led the Raiders to the playoffs twice (2016, 2021). He had a four-year stretch from 2018-21 in which he completed 67.3% of his passes or more while throwing for 4,000 yards or more each of those four seasons. Carr has had one year of 30 touchdown passes (2015) and thrown for less than 10 interceptions three times (2016, 2018-19). In three seasons, Carr has averaged over 7.5 yards per attempt (2019-21). Lastly, twice Carr has had a quarterback rating over 100 (2019-20).
Carr will turn 32 years old this upcoming offseason. Although the 2022 season has been a surprising disappointment, he has thrown for 3,522 yards and has 24 touchdowns to 14 interceptions. Ultimately, Carr is proven as a leader, franchise quarterback and is a strong, quality option who will now be available for the Jets this offseason.