Introduction
CJ Carr has become one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the country. He comes from Saline, Michigan, where his family name already carries weight in football circles. With a successful high school career, growing rivalries, and impressive recruiting rankings, he entered the spotlight early. Many fans also wonder: is CJ related to NFL veteran Derek Carr? This article explores CJ’s background, rankings, Notre Dame career, and clears up the Derek Carr question.
1. Roots in Saline: Football Pedigree and Family Legacy
Saline High School and Family Support
CJ Carr developed his skills at Saline High School under coach Joe Palka. Despite starting tackle football only in seventh grade, he quickly advanced. His rapid progress was no accident. The Carr family has deep football connections.
- Grandfather: Lloyd Carr, legendary Michigan head coach, won the 1997 national title.
- Father: Jason Carr, a former Michigan quarterback, passed down vital knowledge.
- Mother: Tammi Carr, co‑founder of the ChadTough Foundation, supported his journey.
- Siblings: Tommy, a quarterback at Saline, and late brother Chad, whose memory drives CJ forward.
The ChadTough Inspiration
CJ’s younger brother Chad passed away in 2015 at just four years old after battling a brain tumor. In response, his parents created the ChadTough Foundation to fund DIPG research. CJ honors his brother with a “CHAD” tattoo on his wrist. This personal loss shaped him. As a result, coaches and teammates describe CJ as remarkably composed in high‑pressure situations. His resilience is one of his strongest assets.
2. High‑School Rivals and Recruiting Rankings
Rivalries on the Field
Saline High School thrived with CJ at quarterback. He recorded outstanding stats each year. For example, as a sophomore he threw for 2,696 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. The next season, he posted 2,685 yards with 26 touchdowns. As a senior, he finished with 2,754 yards, 24 touchdowns, and added nine rushing scores. These consistent numbers proved his growth and stability.
Recognition and Awards
CJ collected several honors: three‑time all‑state quarterback, Elite 11 finalist, and an All‑American Bowl invitee. Recruiting sites such as 247Sports, Rivals, and ESPN all ranked him as a four‑star recruit. He also earned the title of Michigan’s top quarterback prospect. Consequently, major schools including Michigan, Penn State, LSU, Alabama, and Georgia pursued him.
College Decision
After considering multiple offers, CJ committed to Notre Dame. His choice highlighted his interest in both academics and football tradition. By early 2024, he had enrolled with the Fighting Irish, preparing to carry his family legacy into the college arena.
3. From Saline to South Bend: Notre Dame Career
Freshman Season and Redshirt
CJ joined Notre Dame in 2023. He played in one game during the 2024 season, using a redshirt to preserve eligibility. That year served as an important adjustment period. He trained, observed, and learned under more experienced quarterbacks.
Named Starting Quarterback
In August 2025, Notre Dame officially named CJ the starting quarterback. This promotion came after Riley Leonard’s departure. Therefore, CJ now has the responsibility of leading one of the most historic programs in college football. His mix of poise, accuracy, and football IQ makes him an exciting prospect for the Irish.
4. CJ Carr and Derek Carr: Clearing the Confusion
The shared surname has fueled speculation. Many fans assume CJ Carr is related to Derek Carr, the longtime NFL quarterback. However, this is not true.
- CJ Carr: Born in Michigan, grandson of Lloyd Carr, and part of a family rooted in Michigan football.
- Derek Carr: Born in California, played at Fresno State, and later starred in the NFL for the Raiders and Saints.
Despite their common last name and position, there is no family connection. Their paths are entirely separate. Thus, while both excel as quarterbacks, they come from different football legacies.
5. Strengths and Future Outlook
On‑Field Strengths
CJ Carr is known for several standout qualities:
- Strong football IQ and quick decision‑making.
- Calmness under pressure, shaped by personal adversity.
- Ideal size at 6’3” with excellent mechanics.
- Recognition as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks through Elite 11 and All‑American honors.
The Road Ahead
As Notre Dame’s starter in 2025, CJ has the opportunity to cement his place in the program’s history. His maturity, leadership, and family guidance suggest a bright future. If he continues to progress, he could eventually become a top NFL draft candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who are CJ Carr’s famous relatives?
CJ is the grandson of Michigan coach Lloyd Carr and the son of former quarterback Jason Carr. His mother Tammi is co‑founder of the ChadTough Foundation. He also has a younger brother, Tommy, who plays quarterback at Saline.
Q2: Did CJ Carr play for Saline High School?
Yes. CJ starred at Saline High, throwing for over 2,600 yards in multiple seasons. He also led the team to playoff success each year.
Q3: How highly was CJ Carr ranked as a recruit?
Recruiting services rated him a four‑star quarterback. He ranked as one of the top 40 players nationally and the top prospect in Michigan.
Q4: When did CJ Carr become Notre Dame’s starter?
He redshirted in 2024. In August 2025, he was officially named Notre Dame’s starting quarterback for the season opener.
Q5: Is CJ Carr related to Derek Carr?
No. CJ Carr and Derek Carr are not related. They simply share the same last name.
Q6: How has personal tragedy shaped CJ Carr’s journey?
The loss of his brother Chad inspired resilience and maturity. CJ channels that strength into his leadership on and off the field.
Conclusion
CJ Carr’s story is one of talent, legacy, and perseverance. From Saline High School to Notre Dame, he has carried his family’s football tradition while building his own identity. Although his name sparks comparisons to Derek Carr, there is no family tie. Instead, CJ’s future is uniquely his own. With his resilience, intelligence, and determination, he is poised to leave a lasting impact on college football and beyond.
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