Who Should I Start? Derek Carr or Ezekiel Elliott

Friday, May 16, 12:31 PM

Everyone concedes that quarterback Derek Carr (shoulder) was dealing with a torn right labrum and "significant degenerative changes to his rotator cuff," but not everyone believes it's the full story of why he abruptly retired, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Katherine Terrell. Just before free agency in early March, word began to spread within league circles that Carr, who was heading into the third year of a four-year, $150 million contract, was open to playing elsewhere. According to three league sources, one of his representatives spoke with at least two teams in the market for a QB about potential interest in Carr. A team source said Carr had a close kinship with last season's coaches in New Orleans, who are all now gone, and the Saints' plan to restructure his contract was another potential source of friction. New head coach Kellen Moore never fully committed to Carr being the starter in 2025, either, before learning of his shoulder injury. It sounds as though in addition to his shoulder injury, Carr knew 2025 was going to be his last with the Saints, and rather than trying to figure out a plan to play elsewhere, he decided to hang up his cleats.

Monday, January 6, 9:59 PM

The Los Angeles Chargers have signed running back Ezekiel Elliott on Monday. The former first-round pick will get a chance to compete for a Super Bowl this season. The Chargers are lacking depth at the running back spot, so the addition of Elliott does make sense. The three-time Pro Bowl back might play a minimal role during Saturday's Wild-Card game against the Houston Texans. This season, Elliott rushed for 226 yards on 74 carries with three touchdowns in 15 games with the Dallas Cowboys. The 29-year-old brings knowledge and leadership, but he hasn't rushed for over 1,000 yards since 2021. This is a depth move that gives the 29-year-old a chance to win a Super Bowl.