For now, Derek Carr is out of the lineup, and the Saints have but to position him on injured reserve. The veteran quarterback is however unlikely to play once more this season.
Additional analysis of the harm to Carr’s non-throwing hand — which is fractured in two locations — has made it clear a return just isn’t imminent, Ian Rapoport of NFL Community experiences. Solely three video games stay within the Saints’ season, so whereas surgical procedure continues to be not required, it will be a shock if he have been to see any additional recreation time in 2024. Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Soccer notes the door continues to be open to Carr enjoying, however he isn’t within the image for now.
Carr’s absence — supplied it covers the season’s last three weeks — will finish his second marketing campaign in New Orleans. The previous Raider supplied succesful play at factors final yr (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 robust begin to the season, although, and a postseason berth is unrealistic. The 33-year-old thus faces a robust risk of not enjoying once more till the beginning of the 2025 season.
Carr’s pact requires a $30M base wage subsequent yr. $10M of that determine is assured already, and the rest will vest on March 17. In consequence, 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 last 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 will be no shock if he received the nod for Week 16. The Saints shut out the season with video games in opposition to the Packers, Raiders and Buccaneers, and that stretch might permit Rattler to spice up his inventory within the group whereas Carr continues to rehab.
