Derek Carr’s reported demand of $35 million per year is certainly eye-catching, but it raises an important question about the value of NFL quarterbacks. While Carr is undoubtedly a skilled player, is he really worth that kind of money? It’s a difficult question to answer, and it ultimately depends on how one values the quarterback position. I would say yes, he is worth it relatively speaking.

The top QBs have recently been signing for around $45-50 million per year, so $35 million for a reliable top 15 quarterback feels like a reasonable request from Carr. There are multiple teams that would likely take Carr’s level of play for that price.

Some argue that quarterbacks are the most important players on the field, and therefore, they deserve to be paid accordingly. Others believe that a quarterback’s success is heavily influenced by the team around him, and that paying such exorbitant salaries is ultimately detrimental to a team’s long-term success.

Regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, it’s clear that Carr is taking his time with the free-agent process, and that several teams are interested in his services. Only time will tell where he ultimately lands, but I believe he will ultimately get the $35 million per year that he is seeking.