In a shocking turn of events, veteran quarterback Derek Carr has formally accepted a move to the Carolina Panthers, signing a three-year, $72.6 million guaranteed deal after an intense 23-hour negotiation with Panthers General Manager Dan Morgan.
Carr, who previously played for the New Orleans Saints, sees this as the perfect opportunity to showcase his talents in Carolina and help lead the Panthers back to playoff contention.
“This is a fresh start, and I’m excited to be part of a team that believes in me,” Carr stated. “The Panthers have a great vision, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got to this franchise and its fans.”
The move comes just 13 hours after the Minnesota Vikings announced they were out of the race to sign Carr. Reports indicate that the Vikings had offered a three-year, $57.8 million contract, but Carr opted for Carolina due to his close relationship with Panthers owner David Tepper and the opportunity to take control of the offense in a rebuilding team.
Carr’s arrival in Carolina shakes up the NFC South, as he will now face his former team, the Saints, twice a year. The Panthers, who struggled at quarterback last season, now have a proven veteran under center to lead their offense.
With the deal now finalized, all eyes will be on Carr as he prepares to take charge in Carolina. More details to follow as this story develops.
