David Carr

David Carr is an American former professional football quarterback who played 11 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). Teams he has played with include the Houston Texans, the Carolina Panthers, the San Francisco 49ers, and the New York Giants.

Player Profile, High School, and College Career

David Duke Carr was born on July 21, 1979, in Bakersfield, California, United States. The quarterback stands 191 cm tall, and played at a listed weight of 96 kg.

He attended Stockdale High School in Bakersfield, establishing himself as a highly touted local prospect. Staying close to home, he committed to California State University, Fresno (Fresno State), playing for the Bulldogs from 1997 to 2001.

His collegiate career reached an absolute pinnacle during his 2001 senior campaign. He led the NCAA in both passing yards and passing touchdowns, guiding the Bulldogs to incredible heights. His phenomenal season earned him numerous accolades, including the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, the Sammy Baugh Trophy, and Second-team All-American honors.

His legacy at the university was later immortalized when Fresno State officially retired his No. 8 jersey.

Professional Playing Career

Carr made history in the 2002 NFL Draft when he was selected first overall by the Houston Texans, becoming the franchise's first-ever draft pick and the unquestioned face of the expansion team.

He spent his first five professional seasons as Houston's starting quarterback. Unfortunately, his time with the Texans was defined by immense physical punishment due to a struggling offensive line. As a rookie in 2002, he was sacked an NFL-record 76 times, taking a brutal toll on his development and overall consistency.

Despite the difficult circumstances, he flashed his undeniable arm talent, leading the NFL in completion percentage in 2006 and providing the young franchise with its foundational offensive stability.

Following his release from the Texans, Carr transitioned smoothly into the second phase of his career as a highly valued veteran backup. He spent the 2007 season with the Carolina Panthers before finding a long-term home behind Eli Manning with the New York Giants.

After a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers in 2010, he returned to the Giants in 2011. During that season, his steady veteran presence in the quarterback room helped the Giants capture a world title, earning him a championship ring following their victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI.

He retired after the 2012 season with 14,452 passing yards and 65 career passing touchdowns.

Coaching and Media Career

Off the field, Carr has remained deeply entrenched in the sport of football. In 2015, he transitioned into the coaching ranks, taking on the role of offensive coordinator at Bakersfield Christian High School in his hometown, where he has helped mentor young athletes and develop the team's offensive identity.

In addition to his coaching duties, he successfully pivoted to a prominent media career. He joined the NFL Network as a lead studio analyst.

Career Highlights

• Super Bowl XLVI Champion with the New York Giants
• 2006 – Led the NFL in completion percentage