There is some precedent for quarterbacks making a return to the NFL at age 35 or older. Tom Brady announced his retirement in February 2022 only to announce his return 40 days later. Brett Favre retired and returned multiple times prior to his final NFL season in 2010. But neither of those situations involved Carr's shoulder injury.

Derek Carr sent shockwaves through the NFL on Saturday when he made the decision to retire after 11 seasons. Although he's now done with football, it doesn't look like Carr is going to have much free time on his hands.

A debilitating injury may have sparked retirement talks, but it wasn't the only thing weighing on Derek Carr's mind when he made his move.