In a devastating blow to the New Orleans Saints, quarterback Derek Carr is expected to be sidelined for multiple games due to an oblique injury, as reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. This news comes after Carr suffered the injury in the fourth quarter of the Saints’ 26–13 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Monday night.
On a crucial fourth-and-8 play inside Chiefs’ territory, Carr was hit hard while attempting a deep pass to receiver Mason Tipton. The impact of the hit left Carr in pain and unable to continue playing, leaving the Saints without their starting quarterback.
In Carr’s absence, fourth-round pick Jake Haener took over as the Saints’ quarterback. However, Garafolo also mentioned that rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler is a “strong candidate” to start under center in Week 6. Rattler, a fifth-round pick by New Orleans in April, showcased his skills in the preseason, throwing for 202 yards with two total touchdowns in three appearances.
Carr’s absence will be felt on the field, as he had an impressive start to the season, throwing for 989 yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions on 90-of-128 passing, resulting in a 100.7 passer rating. The Saints will have to adjust to life without Carr as they face tough matchups ahead, including a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a Thursday Night Football showdown against the Denver Broncos on Oct. 17.
With their starting quarterback sidelined, the Saints will need to rely on their depth at the position and solidify their game plan moving forward. It will be a challenging time for the team, but they must rally together and find a way to overcome this setback as they continue their pursuit of success in the NFL.
