It’s always a bit jarring for fans seeing a franchise quarterback switch teams. Playing in different colors and cities takes some getting used to, and the same can be said for the players themselves. At least that’s the case with Derek Carr.
The new Saints quarterback admitted that both he and his family were taken aback when he wore his new uniform for the first time.
“For [my family], putting on black and gold for the first time, it was probably a little weird because when I put that uniform on and I looked in the mirror, [quarterback] Jake [Haener] walked up and he’s like, ‘That looks weird.’ I said, ‘I know, bro,’” Carr told the Saints’ official website. “I’ve been in the same place for nine years. It may look weird, but it felt right. I told [coach Dennis Allen] that earlier this week, I just feel refreshed. I feel rejuvenated. To put that uniform on and come out and be a Saint, it felt really good. I know my wife was excited about today.”
Carr was drafted by the Raiders in 2014 and wore the silver and black for nearly a decade. He was released by the team in February, however, and signed with New Orleans in March. His comments come after a 26–24 preseason win over the Chiefs on Sunday, when Carr completed six of his eight pass attempts for 70 yards and one touchdown in his first game with the Saints.
The 32-year-old is slated to make his regular-season debut with his new squad on Sept. 10 against the Titans.
