NFL QB Derek Carr has achieved an unwanted milestone in NFL history following the New Orleans Saints’ 23-22 loss to the Carolina Panthers in Week 9 of the 2024 season. He became the first quarterback in NFL history to lose to 31 different teams, a record that highlights both his longevity in the league and the challenges he and his teams have faced throughout his career.
Carr entered the 2024 season having lost to 30 different teams, tying him with several other notable quarterbacks who had previously lost to 30 teams. That list includes Drew Bledsoe, Brett Favre, Jon Kitna, Drew Brees, Carson Palmer, Matt Hasselbeck, Alex Smith, Joe Flacco, and Matt Ryan. So what is the moral of the story here? Even the best of them have a similar odd record of losses.
The Path to 31
Carr narrowly avoided setting this record in Week 1 when the Saints defeated the Panthers. However, the Week 9 rematch resulted in a different outcome, pushing Carr into uncharted territory. This loss not only secured his place in NFL history but also continued a disappointing streak for the Saints, who have now lost seven consecutive games after starting the season 2-0.
Potential for a Perfect Record
Interestingly, Carr now has the opportunity to become the first quarterback to lose to all 32 NFL teams. The only franchise that has yet to defeat him is the Las Vegas Raiders, his former team. The Saints are scheduled to face the Raiders in Week 17, setting up a potentially ironic scenario where Carr could complete this dubious achievement against the team he played for during most of his career.
While this record is not one that Carr will likely celebrate, it does reflect his persistence and longevity in the NFL. It’s worth noting that only quarterbacks who have played in the 32-team era (since 2002) have had the opportunity to lose to this many teams.
Most losses overall
As for the quarterback who has lost the most games overall in NFL history, that distinction belongs to Vinny Testaverde, who accumulated 123 losses over his 21-year NFL career. Other quarterbacks with high loss totals include Drew Bledsoe (98 losses) and Kerry Collins (97 losses).