What Year Was Derek Carr Drafted: A Comprehensive Guide To His NFL Journey

Merritt Spinka 21 Jun 2025

When Derek Carr was drafted, it marked the beginning of an exciting chapter in his professional football career. The talented quarterback's journey to the NFL is one that has captivated fans around the globe. As we delve into the specifics of when Derek Carr was drafted, we will also explore his rise to prominence, his skills, and his contributions to the sport.

Derek Carr's name has become synonymous with excellence in the NFL. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders, his career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Understanding the year he was drafted provides a foundation for appreciating his journey and achievements in professional football.

In this article, we will explore the year Derek Carr was drafted, his early life, his college career, and his impact on the NFL. By the end of this piece, you will have a deeper understanding of the factors that contributed to his success and why he remains one of the most respected quarterbacks in the league today.

Biography of Derek Carr

Early Life and Background

Derek Carr was born on March 15, 1991, in Fresno, California. Growing up in a football-loving family, he was exposed to the sport from a young age. His father, David Carr, was also a former NFL quarterback, which undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Derek's passion and dedication to the game.

Below is a table summarizing some key aspects of Derek Carr's personal and professional life:

Full Name	Derek David Carr
Date of Birth	March 15, 1991
Place of Birth	Fresno, California
Height	6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
Weight	224 lbs (102 kg)
Position	Quarterback
College	Fresno State

What Year Was Derek Carr Drafted?

The question "What year was Derek Carr drafted?" is one that resonates with fans who have followed his career closely. Derek Carr was drafted in 2014, a year that marked the beginning of a promising career in the NFL. Selected by the Oakland Raiders in the second round with the 36th overall pick, Carr quickly established himself as a formidable quarterback.

This selection was a testament to his skills and potential, as well as the Raiders' vision for the future. Carr's journey from college football to the NFL is a story of perseverance, talent, and hard work.

College Career: Fresno State

Before Derek Carr entered the NFL, he made a name for himself at Fresno State. Playing for the Bulldogs from 2011 to 2013, Carr set numerous records and earned accolades that solidified his status as one of the top collegiate quarterbacks.

In his senior year, Carr threw for 4,889 yards and 50 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
He was named the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year in 2013.
His college career statistics were impressive, with a completion percentage of 68.1% and a total of 14,503 passing yards.

Key Achievements Since Being Drafted

2014: Rookie Season

In his rookie season, Derek Carr faced the challenge of stepping into the NFL spotlight. Despite being a second-round pick, he quickly adapted to the professional level, earning the starting quarterback role for the Oakland Raiders.

His debut season was marked by several milestones, including:

Starting in 14 games and completing 57.4% of his passes.
Throwing for 3,270 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Earning the trust of his teammates and coaching staff.

2015-2019: Building Momentum

From 2015 to 2019, Derek Carr continued to grow as a player. These years were crucial in shaping his career and establishing him as a reliable quarterback in the NFL.

Some highlights from this period include:

In 2016, Carr led the Raiders to the playoffs for the first time since 2002, throwing for 3,937 yards and 28 touchdowns.
He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2016, recognizing his exceptional performance.
Despite injuries and team changes, Carr remained a consistent presence on the field.

Statistical Analysis of Derek Carr's Performance

Understanding Derek Carr's career involves analyzing his performance through statistics. Below are some key numbers that highlight his contributions to the NFL:

As of the 2022 season, Carr has thrown for over 35,000 career passing yards.
He has recorded more than 230 touchdown passes, making him one of the top passers in the league.
Carr's career completion percentage stands at 65.2%, reflecting his accuracy and decision-making skills.

These statistics underscore Carr's importance to his team and his ability to perform at a high level consistently.

Impact on the NFL

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Derek Carr's impact extends beyond his individual performance. As a leader on and off the field, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the culture of the teams he has played for.

Key aspects of his leadership include:

Encouraging teamwork and fostering a positive environment.
Mentoring younger players and helping them develop their skills.
Setting an example through his work ethic and professionalism.

Community Involvement

Beyond football, Derek Carr is known for his commitment to giving back to the community. He actively participates in charitable activities and initiatives that support youth development and education.

Some of his community efforts include:

Partnering with organizations to provide resources for underprivileged children.
Hosting football camps to inspire young athletes.
Engaging in outreach programs to promote sportsmanship and teamwork.

What Makes Derek Carr Stand Out?

Derek Carr's success in the NFL can be attributed to several factors that set him apart from other quarterbacks. These include:

Passing Accuracy: Carr's precision in throwing the ball is one of his defining traits.
Decision-Making: His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure is exceptional.
Leadership: Carr's leadership qualities have earned him the respect of his peers and coaches.

These attributes have contributed to his longevity and success in the league, making him a valuable asset to any team.

Future Prospects for Derek Carr

As Derek Carr continues to evolve as a player, fans eagerly anticipate his future contributions to the NFL. With a strong foundation built on talent, dedication, and leadership, Carr is poised to achieve even greater heights in his career.

Some potential developments to watch for include:

Pursuing more Pro Bowl selections and MVP honors.
Continuing to break records and set new benchmarks for quarterback performance.
Expanding his influence both within the league and in the broader community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question "What year was Derek Carr drafted?" leads us to 2014, a pivotal moment in his career. Since then, Derek Carr has demonstrated remarkable growth and excellence as an NFL quarterback. His journey from Fresno State to the NFL is a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication.

We invite you to share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. If you enjoyed this article, consider sharing it with fellow fans and exploring other content on our site. Together, let's celebrate the achievements of one of the NFL's most inspiring players!