The bye week came at a good time for the New Orleans Saints. As such is the case for many teams across the NFL, the Saints entered the week off with injured players who could benefit from a week of rest. While they still have question marks about the short-term availability of some players like wide receiver Michael Thomas and cornerback Marshon Lattimore, the biggest question mark revolves around quarterback Derek Carr.
Carr suffered a concussion in Week 10, and as the team turns the page from its bye week and turns its focus to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 12, what is the status of Carr and his situation? Let’s take a closer look.
Derek Carr Injury Update
Saints head coach Dennis Allen met with the media on Monday afternoon and discussed all injuries coming out of the break. When asked about Carr, he mentioned that the QB still remains in concussion protocol at this time.
Then, on Wednesday, Allen told reporters that Carr was a full participant in practice, which is a good sign that he could be available this week.
#Saints coach Dennis Allen told reporters that QB Derek Carr was a full participant in practice, a sign he's progressing through the NFL's concussion protocol.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 22, 2023
MORE: New Orleans Saints Depth Chart
However, things can change quickly, and it is entirely out of the player and the team’s hands as far as when he clears the hurdles needed to get back on the field.
It is a situation worth monitoring, as Carr will continue to go through the process with the independent neurologist who works for the NFL, and once he is able to meet the marks, he then will be back on the field. The only question that remains, though, is when?
Important Stretch of Games Coming for the New Orleans Saints
The Saints are in the midst of a tight divisional race right now, and as we get past Thanksgiving and deeper into the season, every game begins to get more important. Starting off this Sunday against division rival Falcons, the Saints schedule continues with the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, and New York Giants.
While the Lions present a tough challenge for anyone, there are definitely winnable games on the horizon for the Saints. The NFC South has been a struggle over the past couple of seasons, with last year’s division winner having a record below .500.
This year has a chance to produce something similar, further evidence why having Carr back as soon as possible to seize the moment is so vital. Over the next month, a lot can change for the Saints in their favor, and they will surely want all hands on deck for it.
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