Derek Anderson (American football)

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Derek Matthew Anderson (born June 15, 1983) is a former American football quarterback who played 14 seasons in the NFL. He grew up in Scappoose, Oregon, where he excelled in football and basketball in high school. He played college football at Oregon State, and became one of the Pac-10’s top passers, setting school records and leading his team to several bowl games. He was a two-sport standout in college, earning Second-team All-Pac-10 in 2004.

Anderson was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL draft, but he was waived and claimed by the Cleveland Browns, where he began his NFL playing career. He had a breakout season in 2007, starting early and throwing four or five touchdowns in key games, including a 51–45 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. He helped the Browns go 10–6 in games he started and earned a spot in the Pro Bowl that year. He signed a three-year, $27 million contract in 2008, but the team struggled and he eventually lost the starting job. He finished his Browns tenure in 2009 with 29 touchdowns and 19 interceptions.

In 2010 Anderson signed with the Arizona Cardinals, taking over as a starter after Kurt Warner’s retirement. He faced competition and injuries and was released in 2011. He joined the Carolina Panthers later in 2011 and spent most of his time as Cam Newton’s backup, starting when Newton was hurt or unavailable. He helped the Panthers reach Super Bowl 50 in 2016 as Newton’s backup and had a few starting roles in 2014 and 2016.

In 2018 Anderson signed with the Buffalo Bills to back up rookie Josh Allen. He started a few games that season and then retired in 2019, saying lingering concussion symptoms contributed to his decision. Since retiring, he has enjoyed golf and even caddied for a friend at the 2025 Zurich Classic.

Career highlights include the 2007 Pro Bowl selection and the 2004 Second-team All-Pac-10 honor. Anderson stood 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighed about 235 pounds.