NFL Futures: A Dark Season Finale for the Saints?

Share News

NFL Futures and News

Derek Carr’s Injury Clouds Saints’ Season

New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr suffered a significant fracture in his left hand during the team’s Week 14 win against the New York Giants, leaving his availability for the remainder of the season in doubt.  With only four games remaining, Carr is also in the concussion protocol, making his status a week-to-week concern, as confirmed by interim head coach Darren Rizzi. The Saints’ playoff hopes and place in NFL Futures markets could shift significantly as the team navigates another quarterback change.

Carr’s Impactful Absence

Carr exited Sunday’s 14-11 victory over the Giants late in the fourth quarter after landing awkwardly on a 9-yard run. Medical staff attended to him on the field, and he was removed for further evaluation. This marks Carr’s second significant injury of the season, following a three-game absence earlier this year due to an oblique issue.

In 10 starts this season, Carr has thrown for 2,145 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Despite a 5-5 record in those games, Carr’s leadership and stability have kept the Saints competitive in a volatile NFC South. 

However, his up-and-down tenure with New Orleans, as reflected in the team’s 14-13 record under his guidance, has fallen short of expectations given the open competition in the division.

Quarterback Options for the Saints

With Carr sidelined, the Saints face a critical decision between backup Jake Haener, who replaced Carr on Sunday, and rookie Spencer Rattler. Haener has been serviceable but has yet to be tested as a starter. On the other hand, Rattler struggled during his three starts earlier this season, going 0-3 in Carr’s absence.

This quarterback carousel is challenging, especially as the Saints have already lost key offensive players like Taysom Hill, Chris Olave, and Rashid Shaheed to season-ending injuries. With a depleted roster, the Saints must rely on their depth and creativity to stay afloat in the playoff race.

Carr’s Tenure and the Saints’ Future

The Saints signed Carr to a four-year deal worth up to $150 million in the 2023 offseason, seeing him as the best option to stabilize the quarterback position. While Carr has provided moments of promise, his tenure has been marred by inconsistency and injuries. New Orleans must capitalize on a wide-open NFC South, a division they have yet to dominate despite modest competition.

With Carr potentially out for the remainder of the season, the Saints could use this opportunity to evaluate Haener and Rattler as long-term solutions. However, with the 2025 NFL Draft class featuring a strong crop of quarterback prospects, the Saints might be forced to rethink their plans if Carr’s durability and performance continue to raise concerns.

Saints’ Path Forward

At 7-6, the Saints remain atop the NFC South standings but face a tough road ahead with two consecutive away games against the Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys. They’ll close the season with home matchups against the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints.

For a team already dealing with significant roster challenges, Carr’s loss only amplifies the stakes in these remaining games. With playoff aspirations hanging in the balance, the Saints must find a way to adapt their offense and support their quarterback under challenging circumstances.