The Indianapolis Colts need to bring in competition for quarterback Anthony Richardson, and Derek Carr could be a viable option. CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin predicts that the four-time Pro Bowler could land in Indianapolis this offseason.
“Carr remains under contract with the New Orleans Saints, but the team could save tens of millions by moving on and pursuing a younger option, such as Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, in the draft. Meanwhile, the Colts could benefit from a proven veteran to challenge the athletic yet inconsistent Richardson,” Benjamin stated.
If the Saints decide to release Carr this spring, making him a free agent, should the Colts consider signing him?
The Indianapolis Colts Could Sign Quarterback Derek Carr This Offseason
His Career with the Raiders and Saints
The Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders selected Derek Carr in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, making him the franchise’s first rookie quarterback to start a regular-season opener. He wrapped up his rookie campaign with 3,270 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Carr also became the first Raiders quarterback to start all 16 games in a season since Rich Gannon in 2002.
In his third season, Carr guided the Raiders to their first playoff appearance in 14 years, though an injury sidelined him for the postseason. He later led the team back to the playoffs in 2021, but they fell to the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card Round.
Carr departed the Raiders in 2022, signing a four-year, $150 million contract with the Saints. He left as the franchise’s all-time leader in multiple passing categories, including yards and touchdowns. Over two seasons in New Orleans, he has recorded 6,023 passing yards and 40 touchdowns across 27 games.
Should the Colts Should Sign Him?
Colts general manager Chris Ballard held his annual year-end press conference in January, hinting that the team plans to bring in competition for Anthony Richardson this offseason. The Colts could target a quarterback like Jaxson Dart or Will Howard in the 2025 NFL Draft, or they might explore free agency, considering options such as Jacoby Brissett, Jameis Winston, or Mac Jones.
Another intriguing possibility is Derek Carr if he becomes available. Carr could challenge Richardson for the starting role in training camp, and if he doesn’t win the job, he would serve as a reliable backup in case of injury.
Richardson, the fourth overall pick in 2023, has had a rocky start to his NFL career. Injuries, fatigue concerns, and a temporary benching have marked his early tenure. While he has flashed his athleticism with dynamic plays on the ground, his passing has been inconsistent, completing just 47.7% of his attempts in 2024.
Despite his struggles, Richardson has the potential to develop into a star. Bringing in a veteran like four-time Pro Bowler Derek Carr could provide the competition and mentorship needed to help him reach that level.
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