Saints QB Derek Carr Unlikely to Return This Season After Hand Injury

The quarterback's recovery timeline and concussion protocol make a 2024 return improbable, leaving New Orleans to evaluate backup options for the final three games.

Derek Carr suffered multiple fractures in his left hand and a concussion during a Week 14 win over the New York Giants, leaving him sidelined indefinitely.
NFL Network reports Carr is at least a few weeks away from being cleared for contact, making his return before the end of the season unlikely.
Interim head coach Darren Rizzi has not ruled out Carr’s return but acknowledged that his recovery progress is not sufficient at this time.
Backup quarterbacks Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler are competing for the starting role, with Rattler impressing in a near-comeback performance against Washington in Week 15.
The Saints, now 5-9, are effectively out of playoff contention and may use the remaining games to evaluate younger players, including Rattler, for future roles.