SAD NEWS: Derek Carr Out for NFL Season After Being Diagnosed with Terrible Disease

 

SAD NEWS: Derek Carr Out for NFL Season After Being Diagnosed with Terrible Disease

 

 

 

SAD NEWS: Derek Carr Out for NFL Season After Being Diagnosed with Pneumonia

In a stunning and deeply unfortunate turn of events, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season after being diagnosed with a severe case of pneumonia. The announcement, made early Saturday morning by Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis, has left the NFL community stunned and saddened. Carr, a veteran leader and former Pro Bowler, was expected to be the centerpiece of the Saints’ playoff push this season.

Shocking News Rocks the Saints Locker Room

Derek Carr, 34, had reportedly been battling flu-like symptoms during training camp. At first, the team believed he was suffering from a common upper respiratory infection. However, after several days of persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, fatigue, and fever, Carr underwent further medical tests. The results revealed that he had developed a severe case of pneumonia affecting both lungs — an illness far more serious than initially anticipated.

Though pneumonia is treatable, complications in Carr’s case have led doctors to recommend an extended period of rest and medical monitoring. As a result, the Saints’ medical staff and front office made the difficult decision to shut Carr down for the rest of the 2025 season.

 

Saints Make It Official

In a press release issued Saturday morning, the Saints organization stated:

“After careful medical evaluation, quarterback Derek Carr has been diagnosed with a serious case of pneumonia. Due to the severity of his condition and the time required for full recovery, Derek will not participate in the 2025 NFL season. Our focus is entirely on his health, and we will provide him with every possible resource and support throughout his recovery process.”

Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen, who coached Carr in both Las Vegas and New Orleans, appeared visibly emotional during a media briefing:

“Derek’s not just our quarterback — he’s our leader, our friend, and a warrior. Seeing him go through this has been incredibly tough. We’re going to rally behind him and keep fighting. The whole team has his back.”

Teammates, Fans, and NFL Stars React

Reactions from teammates and fans poured in almost immediately after the announcement. Saints star wide receiver Chris Olave posted a message on X (formerly Twitter):

“Man, prayers up for my guy @derekcarrqb. Rest up and come back stronger, bro. We got you.”

Former teammates, coaches, and players from across the league joined in, offering words of encouragement. Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen were among the NFL stars who expressed their concern and support for Carr and his family. The hashtag #PrayersForCarr trended globally within hours of the news breaking.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also released a brief statement:

“Derek Carr is one of the most respected professionals in our league, both on and off the field. The NFL community stands united in wishing him a full and speedy recovery.”

What This Means for the Saints

Carr’s absence throws a massive wrench into the Saints’ season. After finishing strong last year, New Orleans entered the 2025 campaign with renewed optimism. Carr, entering his second season with the team, had shown strong leadership during offseason activities and was expected to elevate the offense alongside playmakers like Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas.

The team is now forced to look at other quarterback options. Backup Jameis Winston is expected to take over starting duties, with rookie quarterback Evan Hatcher likely stepping into the No. 2 role. However, with Carr out of the equation, the team’s playoff hopes have taken a serious hit.

Analysts are already predicting a scramble by the Saints to sign a veteran free-agent quarterback or initiate a trade — though the midseason market is thin.

 

Derek Carr’s Message to Fans

Despite the tough news, Derek Carr remained gracious and optimistic. In a message posted to his Instagram account, the veteran QB wrote:

“This isn’t how I imagined this season going, but I trust in God’s plan for my life. I’m grateful for the doctors, my teammates, my coaches, and especially the fans who’ve already shown so much love. Right now, I’m focused on getting healthy and being there for my family. Keep the team in your prayers — they’ll keep fighting.”

Carr’s wife, Heather, also posted a message thanking fans for their support and asking for privacy as the family navigates this challenging period.

A Career of Resilience

Derek Carr has long been praised for his toughness and character. Over the course of his career, which began in 2014 with the then-Oakland Raiders, Carr has earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s most durable and consistent quarterbacks. He holds multiple franchise records and has been selected to the Pro Bowl four times.

While this setback is significant, those who know Carr believe it will not be the end of his NFL journey. Doctors remain optimistic that, with rest and proper treatment, he can make a full recovery and return to football in 2026 — if he chooses to continue playing.

The Road Ahead

The Saints have asked for continued prayers and support for Carr and his family. While the season now presents a new set of challenges for the franchise, the mood around the league is one of unity, compassion, and hope.

Carr’s illness is a powerful reminder that behind the helmets and game-day performances, NFL athletes are human — vulnerable to the same health issues that affect millions of people every year.

For now, the NFL community stands behind Derek Carr — a warrior on and off the field — as he begins the biggest fight of his life: the fight for his health.