New Orleans Saints Derek Carr Dealing With Shoulder Injury, 2025 Status Unclear
The New Orleans Saints have one of the most interesting quarterback situations in the entire league. A few years back, they signed Derek Carr to a fully guaranteed deal, but he has struggled during this tenure. Part of this is due to injuries, some of which ended his season prematurely last year. The depth chart behind him isn’t stellar. Spencer Rattler got some starts last year but failed to impress. They did sign Ben DiNucci, who had one okay for the Dallas Cowboys, and Jake Haener is also there. The situation is about to get more interesting as a recent report indicates Carr may be dealing with a major shoulder injury.
New Orleans Saints Derek Carr Injury
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported the veteran quarterback is dealing with a shoulder injury that “threatens his availability” for the 2025 season. He is currently weighing his options, but season-ending surgery is still on the table. Carr is coming off a season in which he only played ten games, going 5-5 with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions. He recently agreed to a restructured deal with the New Orleans Saints to remain with the team and allow the team to sign some players.
This would be a huge blow to the Saints. While they weren’t necessarily the pick to be the best in the NFC this year, they have an outside chance at the playoffs, given their division. The Atlanta Falcons are relying on Michael Penix Jr. to continue his growth, but the defense also needs help. Tampa Bay is probably the favorite, but they are far from dominant, and the Panthers are still rebuilding. With new head coach Kellen Moore, the offense could have looked good with Carr, Alvin Kamara, and Chris Olave. Things now look bleak.
Other Options
Rattler started six games last year for the New Orleans Saints. He went 0-6, throwing for 1,317 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions. The offense failed to move the ball with him under center. This has many wondering whether the Saints will look to draft a quarterback with the ninth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Cam Ward is expected to be taken number one overall, but there are many differing opinions on who will go next and when.
Shedeur Sanders is one of the most polarizing prospects in the draft. Some people love him, and others think he will be a complete bust. Jaxson Dart is also getting some first-round buzz and could be a player to watch during the first round on April 24. The best option for the Saints might be to look to the future. Carr is 34 years old, and the injuries are starting to pile up. Sometimes, it’s best to reset.
Final Thoughts
The New Orleans Saints could also punt on season. Next year’s quarterback class is loaded, and many teams could tank for a high pick in order to draft Arch Manning or one of the other top prospects. We’ll have to see what Carr and the Saints decide to do for the 2025 season.
