CJ Carr: Related to Derek Carr| ESPN| Highlights| Father| Rivals| Dad

Introduction

CJ Carr, the promising new quarterback for Notre Dame, has become a fascinating figure in college football—not only for his on-field potential but also for his rich family lineage. With ties to legendary Wolverines coach Lloyd Carr and quarterback Jason Carr, speculation has swirled about whether he’s related to NFL veteran quarterback Derek Carr. In this article, we separate facts from fiction, walk through CJ Carr’s rise to prominence, his ESPN coverage, highlights, family background, and how his path diverges from big-name rivals like Derek. Let’s break it all down.

1. Is CJ Carr Related to Derek Carr?

Despite sharing a last name and quarterback position, CJ Carr and Derek Carr are not related by blood. Investigations and genealogical records show no familial connection between them. Instead, the common bond lies purely in their name and football aspirations.

This misconception is often heightened by fans given their shared position and prominence, but there’s no bloodline link—just name coincidence and a shared love for football.

2. ESPN Coverage: CJ Carr’s Profile and Story

ESPN has covered CJ Carr extensively, profiling him as Notre Dame’s rising QB. He’s #13 on the Fighting Irish roster, listed as a freshman quarterback standing 6’3″, weighing 210 lbs, hailing from Saline, Michigan.

Earlier coverage highlights his decision to commit to Notre Dame, breaking from Michigan tradition and backed by a family rooted in Michigan football legacy.

3. Highlights: Early Career & High School Achievements

CJ Carr’s high school career was nothing short of prolific:

• At Saline High School, he threw 2,696 yards and 28 touchdowns as a sophomore.

• For his junior season, he nearly replicated that with 2,685 yards and 26 touchdowns.

• As a senior, he topped it with 2,754 yards and 24 touchdowns, earning a spot in the 2024 All-American Bowl.

Rated a four-star recruit, he chose Notre Dame over prestigious programs including Michigan, Alabama, Georgia, LSU, and more.

4. Family Legacy: Father, Grandfather, and Mother

CJ Carr comes from football royalty:

• Grandfather: Lloyd Carr, head coach at Michigan (1995–2007), led the Wolverines to a national championship in 1997.

• Father: Jason Carr, a former quarterback for Michigan in the mid-1990s.

• Mother: Tammi Carr, University of Michigan alumna, co-founder of the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation.

He also had two brothers—Tommy (a quarterback recruit of his own) and Chad (who tragically passed away in 2015 from DIPG). These profound family ties fostered both CJ’s athletic ambition and his resilience.

5. Rivalry: Michigan Roots vs. Notre Dame Commitment

CJ’s decision to commit to Notre Dame carries additional weight, given his family’s Michigan legacy:

• ESPN highlighted the significance of him choosing Notre Dame over Michigan and how his family ultimately supported this decision.

• His choice marks a symbolic rivalry moment—Notre Dame secured a legacy recruit destined for Michigan, demonstrating his independence and Notre Dame’s recruiting strength.

6. The Path Ahead: Expectations & Early College Steps

• In August 2025, Notre Dame named CJ Carr the starting quarterback, elevating him over competitor Kenny Minchey. The decision was rooted in his decision-making and leadership, valued more than pure athleticism.

• His limited college experience includes one game appearance with no pass attempts—a modest start but already making headlines.

• His leadership foundation builds on predecessors like Riley Leonard and Sam Hartman, but he brings a fresh style and approach.

7. Summary: CJ Carr’s Identity Beyond the Name

Key takeaways:

FAQs

1. Is CJ Carr related to NFL QB Derek Carr?
No—they are not related. It’s purely coincidence that they share a surname and position.

2. How is CJ Carr related to Lloyd Carr?
Lloyd Carr is CJ’s grandfather. CJ’s father, Jason, played quarterback at Michigan in the 1990s under his dad, Lloyd.

3. Who are CJ Carr’s parents?

• Father: Jason Carr, former Michigan QB in the 1990s.

• Mother: Tammi Carr, UM alum and co-founder of the ChadTough DIPG Foundation.

4. Did CJ choose Notre Dame over Michigan?
Yes. Despite his deep Michigan roots, CJ committed to Notre Dame, marking a symbolic rivalry victory.

5. What high school stats highlight CJ’s potential?

• Sophomore: 2,696 yards, 28 TDs

• Junior: 2,685 yards, 26 TDs

• Senior: 2,754 yards, 24 TDs
  He also played in the 2024 All-American Bowl.

6. When and why was CJ Carr named Notre Dame’s starting QB?
In August 2025, Head Coach Marcus Freeman named him starter based on his leadership and decision-making abilities.