The New Orleans Saints’ faint playoff hopes have been officially snuffed out, as star quarterback Derek Carr has been ruled out for the team’s season finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite his tireless efforts to rehabilitate a fractured hand suffered in Week 14, Carr was unable to recover in time to lead the Saints in their must-win matchup.
Carr’s Valiant Effort Falls Short
Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi praised Carr’s determination to get back on the field, emphasizing the veteran quarterback’s unwavering commitment to his team:
“I got frustrated with reports in the beginning because I witnessed and watched this guy every single day, come in here, and rehab with a purpose of getting back. At no point in the rehab process was there ever a ‘I’m done for the year’…”
– Darren Rizzi, Saints Interim Head Coach
Carr, who joined the Saints this offseason after a storied career with the Las Vegas Raiders, had been the driving force behind New Orleans’ offense. His absence will be felt as the team looks to end a disappointing season on a high note.
Simulation Attempts Fall Flat
Coach Rizzi revealed that the team had attempted to inject Carr’s hand with pain medication in order to simulate game scenarios, but the quarterback was unable to achieve the necessary functionality to compete at a high level. Rizzi commended Carr’s effort, stating:
“He really did everything humanly possible to [get back on the field].”
– Darren Rizzi, Saints Interim Head Coach
Saints’ Other Injury Woes
Compounding the Saints’ troubles, star running back Alvin Kamara is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game due to a lingering groin injury. Rookie wide receiver Chris Olave, who has battled concussions throughout the season, is officially questionable. The mounting injuries have taken a toll on a once-promising Saints squad.
Looking Ahead to an Uncertain Offseason
With their playoff aspirations dashed and key players sidelined, the Saints must now turn their attention to the future. The offseason will likely bring significant changes as the organization looks to retool and recover from a trying year. For Carr, the focus will be on getting healthy and returning to form in 2025.
As the Saints prepare to close out the 2024 season against their division rivals, they will do so without the heart and soul of their offense. Derek Carr’s absence serves as a bitter reminder of what could have been for a team that entered the year with high expectations. Now, they must regroup and begin the process of rebuilding for the challenges ahead.
