The New Orleans Saints are set to make a decision in Week 6 that could change the face of the franchise. The 2-3 Saints are preparing to play the 3-2 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home.
Starting quarterback Derek Carr suffered an oblique injury during the Saints’ 26-13 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday night. The veteran said after the game that he was in pain and hinted that he could miss some time.
The New Orleans Saints have big worries in Week 6
On Tuesday, NFL Media reported Carr is expected to miss the next couple of weeks due to the oblique injury. Per Josina Anderson, the vague timeline offered doesn’t mean anything about the potential trade of Davante Adams to the Saints.
“Moreover, my understanding is that Carr’s recent injury does not necessarily impact New Orleans’ interest in continuing trade discussions for Davante Adams.” Anderson posted Tuesday afternoon on X. “The sentiment now is that interest is contingent on Adams’ current evaluations of his prospect teams given the outcome of Week 5 games.”
Carr’s status does have ramifications for the organization. Per Mike Garafolo, the Saints are expected to turn to rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler to start against the Buccaneers.
“More on the Saints’ QB situation: Rookie fifth-rounder Spencer Rattler is a strong candidate to get the start in Derek Carr’s absence, sources tell me and Ian Rapoport,” Garafolo posted on X. “With Drake Maye getting the ball for the Patriots, that would make five rookie QBs to get a start this year.”
Spencer Rattler could pose a threat to Derek Carr long-term
Rattler was a starter at Oklahoma before he was benched in favor of Caleb Williams. He transferred to South Carolina and had a strong end to his college career before the Saints drafted him in April.
Rattler was considered one of the best quarterbacks in the class of 2019. However, he had some maturing to do in college before he was ready to be a leader in the NFL.
Rattler was thought to perform well at practices in the offseason and training camp by multiple beat writers.
If Rattler plays well while Carr is out, the Saints could have a serious decision to make as to who would start for the Saints for the rest of the season.
Rattler was not asked to come in and play against the Chiefs after Carr exited the game. Jake Haener went 2-of-7 passing for 17 yards.
