offGrid NFL - Raiders release quarterback Derek Carr

Quarterback Derek Carr has been released by the Las Vegas Raiders after weeks of speculation over his future.

Raiders release QB Derek Carr. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/cNh6KLRh2M
— NFL (@NFL) February 14, 2023

The move was expected after Carr was benched for the final two games of the 2022 season, with backup Jarrett Stidham starting against the 49ers and the Chiefs. The Raiders would have owed Carr $40.4m in guaranteed money over the next two years if he remained on the roster beyond Tuesday, and by releasing him, they will have a salary dead cap hit of $5.6m next season.

Over nine seasons with the Raiders, Carr became the team’s career leader in passing yards (35,222) and touchdown passes (217), but only led the team to two playoff appearances.

Derek Carr now immediately becomes a free agent and could talk to teams and take visits if he'd like to.

He essentially has a full month head start over everyone else since he was released from his contract. Other impending FA quarterbacks (like Jimmy Garoppolo) have to wait.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 14, 2023

Nonetheless, despite failing to find a trade partner while with Las Vegas, Carr is expected to attract attention from across the league this offseason. The QB visited the Saints early in February, and other possible landing spots include Panthers, Jets, Colts and Buccaneers among others.

Carr will now be free to sign with any team immediately.