Derek Carr Oct 23, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) leaves the field after the game against the Houston Texans at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Given the current contract situation for Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr, everyone knew the team had a major decision to make shortly after the end of the NFL season. And now it appears the decision has been made that Carr will not return to the team next season.

According to a report from league insider Ian Rapoport of The NFL Network, the Raiders are beginning the process of exploring the trade market for Derek Carr.

“Sources: The #Raiders will begin the process of evaluating the trade market for QB Derek Carr, as they prepare for a decision on their QB for the future. This points to the possibility of Carr, who holds a no-trade clause and will be part of the process, leaving the organization,” Rapoport said in a tweet on Thursday morning.

It became clear that the team was ready to move on from Carr after the quarterback was benched during the final weeks of the season, resulting in him leaving the team so as not to be a distraction. The decision is primarily due to money as the team can avoid a massive salary cap hit if they trade or release him shortly after the end of this NFL season.

Carr will undoubtedly have plenty of suitors and he could wind up in an even better situation than Las Vegas.

[Ian Rapoport]