For now, Derek Carr is out of the lineup, and the Saints have but to put him on injured reserve. The veteran quarterback is nonetheless unlikely to play once more this season.
Additional analysis of the damage to Carr’s non-throwing hand — which is fractured in two locations — has made it clear a return is just not imminent, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Solely three video games stay within the Saints’ season, so whereas surgery is still not required, it might be a shock if he have been to see any additional recreation time in 2024. Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football notes the door remains to be open to Carr enjoying, however he’s not within the image for now.
Carr’s absence — offered it covers the season’s ultimate three weeks — will finish his second marketing campaign in New Orleans. The previous Raider offered succesful play at factors final 12 months (throughout the second half of the season specifically), and expectations have been excessive for improved effectivity with new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak in place. Just like the Saints, Carr couldn’t keep a excessive stage of play following a powerful begin to the season, although, and a postseason berth is unrealistic. The 33-year-old thus faces a powerful risk of not enjoying once more till the beginning of the 2025 season.
Carr’s pact requires a $30M base wage subsequent 12 months. $10M of that determine is assured already, and the rest will vest on March 17. Consequently, a launch earlier than or after June 1 throughout the upcoming offseason wouldn’t yield cap financial savings, barring a notable restructuring to be labored out by then. With no ensures in place after 2025, Carr’s contract might arrange subsequent season as his ultimate one in New Orleans.
For now, the Saints have Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler in place as wholesome quarterback choices. The previous began Sunday’s loss to the Commanders, however he was benched in favor of the latter. Rattler helped lead New Orleans to a rebound on offense throughout the second half of that recreation, and it might be no shock if he bought the nod for Week 16. The Saints shut out the season with video games towards the Packers, Raiders and Buccaneers, and that stretch might enable Rattler to spice up his inventory within the group whereas Carr continues to rehab.
