The New York Jets have scheduled a visit with free-agent quarterback Derek Carr, according to sources who spoke with ESPN. Carr was released by the Las Vegas Raiders on Tuesday, after refusing to waive his no-trade clause and before $40 million of his contract would have been guaranteed.
Carr, who turns 32 in March, has racked up impressive statistics during his seven-year career with the Raiders. He holds virtually every passing record the Raiders have, and has rushed for more than 4,000 yards in four of the last five seasons. He has a 63-79 record as the team’s starter since being drafted out of Fresno State in the second round of the 2014 draft.
The Jets have had trouble finding a franchise quarterback, having used first-round picks on Mark Sanchez (2009), Sam Darnold (2018), and Zach Wilson (2021). Since 2010, the Jets have had the fewest touchdown passes (225) and tied with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for most interceptions (210).
Owner Woody Johnson recently said that a quarterback was the “missing piece” and that he would pay “absolutely” big money to acquire a veteran. The Jets started last season with three quarterbacks, which contributed to acute struggles on offense and a six-game losing streak to end the season. They changed offensive coordinators, replacing Mike LaFleur with former Denver Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett.
The visit between Carr and the Jets could be a turning point for the franchise, as they look to acquire a veteran quarterback to bring stability to the position. If a deal is reached, it could mean a new era for the Jets, as they look to end their playoff drought and become contenders in the AFC.