New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr is expected to miss several weeks with a hand injury, including a Week 16 matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Carr suffered a significant fracture in his left, non-throwing hand in Sunday’s win over the New York Giants. The injury won’t require surgery but could end Carr’s season. He is also dealing with a concussion.
Carr sustained his injuries during a late-game scramble, in which he landed on his helmet and left hand. He was taken into the locker room to be evaluated and did not return to the game. His replacement, Jake Haener, did not attempt a single pass as the Saints were able to hold on and win 14-11 thanks to a blocked field during the final seconds.
After improving to 5-8, the Saints have a 3.1 percent chance to win the NFC South and a 3.7 percent chance to make the playoffs, per Pro Football Network. However, it all hinges on New Orleans winning out their remaining schedule.
Coming out of their bye week, the Saints have the choice of going with Haener or rookie Spencer Rattler against Green Bay. Rattler has started three games in place of Carr this season, losing all three while completing less than 60 percent of passes with one touchdown, two interceptions, and taking 14 sacks. Meanwhile, Haener has yet to start in an NFL game but was the first one called on to relieve Carr, indicating he could be the preferred backup. Fortunately, New Orleans has some extra time to decide on their best option.
The Packers are almost guaranteed a playoff spot with one more win. If it doesn’t happen this week against the Seattle Seahawks, there’s a good chance it happens against a Saints team without their starting quarterback.
