KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In the fourth quarter of Monday’s game, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr left the field due to an oblique injury during the team’s 26-13 defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs.
“Not good,” Carr remarked when questioned about his condition.
He mentioned his intention to undergo an MRI on Tuesday to assess the injury.
Carr exited the game with 9:32 remaining after making an incomplete pass to wide receiver Mason Tipton on a fourth down. He seemed to be holding his hip as he departed the field and was evaluated in the injury tent before walking to the locker room with the medical staff.
“I was completely confident right up until I got hurt that we could win this game,” Carr stated.
While attempting the throw, Carr experienced the oblique issue. He clarified that it wasn’t a matter of pain tolerance; he simply wasn’t able to make throws effectively.
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Carr indicated that he inquired with the medical team about the possibility of returning to the game, but they informed him that time constraints prevented it. Jake Haener took over at quarterback for Carr on the next offensive series.
“It wasn’t about enduring pain… I just can’t perform as I want to,” Carr explained.
When asked about his availability for the upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carr expressed uncertainty about his status.
“I will do everything possible to ensure I’m there on Sunday,” he affirmed.
This marks the fourth time that Carr has had to leave a game due to injury during his two seasons with the Saints. Previously, he sprained the AC joint in his shoulder against the Green Bay Packers in Week 3 of last season and entered concussion protocol on two occasions last year, leaving games against the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions.
New Orleans Saints’ Derek Carr Exits Game with Oblique Injury
Overview of the Injury Situation
During the recent matchup, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr exited the game due to an oblique injury. This unexpected turn has left fans and analysts questioning his status for the upcoming game. Carr’s departure from the field was notable as he was seen walking the sideline without a helmet, indicating that he was likely headed to the locker room for further evaluation [[1](https://www.on3.com/pro/news/derek-carr-injury-update-espn-broadcast-updates-status-of-saints-qb/)].
Details of the Incident
- Date of Incident: October 8, 2024
- Injury Type: Oblique injury
- Initial Reaction: Carr walked off the field without assistance, sparking hopes that the injury might not be severe.
Potential Impact on the Saints
Derek Carr has been a pivotal player for the New Orleans Saints, and his absence could have significant implications for the team’s performance. Here’s how his injury could affect the Saints:
- Quarterback Depth: The Saints rely heavily on Carr’s experience and skill set. Should he miss time, the backup quarterback will need to step up, which could disrupt the team’s offensive rhythm.
- Playoff Implications: The Saints are in a competitive division, and every game counts. Missing Carr could hinder their chances of maintaining a strong position for the playoffs.
Backup Quarterback Options
If Carr’s injury sidelines him for the next match, the Saints may lean on one of the following options:
| Player | Experience | Previous Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Taysom Hill | 5 years | Versatile player with QB experience |
| Jameis Winston | 7 years | Starter in previous seasons, high yardage potential |
Recovery Timeline and Medical Insights
Oblique injuries can vary widely in recovery time. Here’s what fans should know:
- Severity Matters: The healing time can range from a few days for mild strains to several weeks for more severe injuries.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy will likely be a critical component of Carr’s recovery process to ensure he regains full strength without risking re-injury.
Fan Reactions and Team Morale
The reaction from the Saints’ fanbase has been mixed, with many expressing concern over the team’s prospects without Carr under center. Social media platforms have seen an influx of messages regarding potential outcomes for the season:
- Optimism: Some fans believe the team can rally and continue to perform well, citing past instances where backups have thrived.
- Pessimism: Others worry that without Carr, the offense may falter significantly, affecting their chances against tougher opponents.
Upcoming Matches and Scheduling
The Saints are scheduled to play several important games in the coming weeks. Here’s a brief overview:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 15, 2024 | Atlanta Falcons | Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
| October 22, 2024 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Caesars Superdome |
Case Studies: Past Quarterback Injuries
To understand the potential impact of Carr’s injury, we can look back at similar situations in the NFL:
1. Drew Brees
When Drew Brees faced a lengthy injury in 2019, the Saints turned to Teddy Bridgewater, who won five consecutive games in his absence, showcasing the depth of talent in the team.
2. Dak Prescott
In 2020, Dak Prescott’s injury forced the Dallas Cowboys to rely on Andy Dalton, which disrupted their offensive flow but also highlighted the necessity of a strong backup strategy.
Tips for Fans and Fantasy Players
While the status of Derek Carr remains uncertain, here are some tips for fans and fantasy football players:
- Stay Updated: Follow reliable sports news outlets for the latest injury updates.
- Consider Backup Strategies: If you’re in a fantasy league, research backup quarterbacks who could step in for Carr.
- Engage in Social Media: Join fan discussions to gauge public sentiment and gain insights into potential player performances.
Conclusion
As the situation develops, the New Orleans Saints and their fans are on high alert regarding Derek Carr’s health. The team’s ability to adapt will be crucial as they navigate the challenges ahead in the NFL season.
