Derek Carr’s Pursuit for a Perfect Match Landed Him in Line With These Three Teams

Former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is turning out to be one of the most interesting free agents in this upcoming 2023 free agency. He seems to be looking for a perfect match for himself going forward. After traveling to Indianapolis to secure a potential landing spot for next season, Carr is deciding between three franchises in the league.

The New Orleans Saints have already been scouring for Derek Carr, even before the Raiders officially released him. And the NFL world also knows how badly the New York Jets need someone to fill their pocket. However, as per the latest reports, the Panthers have also emerged as likely candidates.

The NFC South seems to be a priority for Derek Carr

After possibly the worst season of his 9-year career that saw him getting picked 14 times in 15 games, Carr has a lot to prove this year. The Raiders benched him during their final two games of the season. And Carr wants to forget that chapter as quickly as he can. However, he knows how tricky the AFC can get with its flock of talented quarterbacks.

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The NFC undoubtedly gives him a smoother road to the playoffs. And with Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Tom Brady retired, the NFC South throne is up for grabs. Understandably, Carr sees that opportunity. And that’s why he roped in the Carolina Panthers on his wishlist. Derek Carr met the Panthers on Tuesday, including owner David Tepper. And if that doesn’t work out, there’s always the Saints. New Orleans already hosted Carr on February 8, and had their second meeting at the Combine, according to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport.

A move to New York and the AFC East is not off the table either.

How did Carr’s meeting with the Jets go?

After not finding their quarterback fit, despite rotating through four QBs (Zach Wilson, Joe Flacco, Mike White, Chris Streveler) during the 2022-23 season, the New York Jets are in desperate need of some pocket wizardry. They have already enquired about Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers. However, with the cloud of uncertainty hanging over A-Rod’s future, Derek Carr could be the temporary solution to all of Gang Green’s problems.

Carr already had his visit with the Jets. And according to General Manager Joe Douglas, the meeting was “fantastic.” As per reports coming out of Indianapolis’ NFL Scouting Combine, Carr and the Jets have another meeting scheduled this week. And Jets owner Woody Johnson will probably sit in for that as well.

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The Jets have already promised Carr a first-ballot Hall of Fame career if he chooses the Broadway Bound road. However, with only one playoff appearance in his decade-long career, Derek Carr also wants to win. And the AFC East can make that significantly harder.