New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr exited the team’s 33-28 defeat against the Detroit Lions in the fourth quarter, remaining sidelined after entering concussion protocol due to shoulder and back injuries. Jameis Winston, the backup, took over to conclude the game.
This marks Carr’s third departure from a game this season due to injury. Previously, he sprained the AC joint in his throwing shoulder in Week 3 against the Green Bay Packers and entered concussion protocol in Week 10 against the Minnesota Vikings. In the latter game, Carr exacerbated the shoulder injury, requiring him to leave on a cart despite initially walking to the sideline unassisted.
Expressing his frustration, Carr remarked, “I have never been hurt this much in my life in one season,” upon the Saints’ return from their bye week last week.
The injury occurred when Carr absorbed a forceful hit from Lions pass-rusher Bruce Irvin. Though a cart was brought onto the field, Carr managed to walk to the medical tent independently. Following an evaluation in the tent, he proceeded to the locker room.
Saints coach Dennis Allen refrained from speculating on the severity of Carr’s concussion, stating, “He’s going in for evaluation on a couple of different things, but he’s in the concussion protocol.”
The Saints, accustomed to quarterback injuries, previously faced challenges with Drew Brees in 2019 and 2020 and Winston’s ACL tear in 2021, followed by early-season injuries last year.
When asked about potentially resting Carr due to accumulated injuries, akin to Winston’s situation last year, Allen emphasized the uniqueness of each quarterback’s circumstances. He stressed, “We’re not getting into what we did last year [vs.] what we’re doing this year.”
Acknowledging concerns about Carr’s injuries, Allen affirmed that the evaluation process for Carr would be consistent with any other player, and decisions about the next steps would follow due diligence.
Despite the setbacks, Carr completed the game with a 17-of-22 record for 226 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He faced two sacks and occasional booing from the home crowd.
Saints offensive lineman James Hurst expressed unwavering support for Carr, emphasizing the team’s admiration for Carr’s resilience. Hurst highlighted Carr’s determination to return swiftly from injuries, including the AC sprain and earlier concussion, praising his commitment to the game.
