Derek Carr, the quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, is anticipated to make his return to the lineup this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers after missing the last three games due to an oblique injury. Saints head coach Dennis Allen announced that Carr will reclaim his starting position, with Jake Haener stepping in as the backup. While Carr was sidelined, the Saints opted to start rookie Spencer Rattler. Allen highlighted the importance of Carr’s experience and leadership as the team looks to rebound from a difficult stretch.
Carr’s injury occurred during the Week 5 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs and has kept him out longer than any previous injury since he broke his ankle in 2017 while with the Raiders. He described the recovery process as challenging but acknowledged the Saints’ athletic training staff for helping him return ahead of schedule. Despite the manageable pain from the injury, Carr found it frustrating not to be able to participate in games, reflecting on how difficult it is for any player to watch from the sidelines.
In his recovery, Carr sought advice from former Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who dealt with a similar injury during the 2014 preseason. Brees advised Carr on the importance of maintaining his mechanics and not rushing back to action. Carr expressed confidence in his readiness, reassuring fans that he has taken the necessary precautions to avoid aggravating his injury. He underscored the significance of being cautious, especially in a physically demanding sport like football.
The Saints have struggled offensively in Carr’s absence, scoring only three touchdowns over the last three games, contributing to a six-game losing streak—the longest for the team since 2005. Carr downplayed any expectations of being a “savior” for the team upon his return, emphasizing his role as a leader and teammate. He expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the team’s morale and ensuring that players stay focused and accountable as they work through their challenges.
As the Saints prepare for the upcoming game, Carr is committed to bringing a relentless work ethic to the remainder of the season. He spoke about his dedication to the team, promising to put in the long hours necessary to help the squad improve. Alongside Carr’s return, the Saints are dealing with additional injury concerns, including cornerback Marshon Lattimore and safety Tyrann Mathieu missing practice, which adds to the complexity of their preparations as they aim to turn their fortunes around against the Panthers.
