Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi remains tight-lipped about the starting quarterback for New Orleans’ upcoming matchup against Washington on Sunday.
On Wednesday, Rizzi indicated that there is still a possibility for Derek Carr to clear the concussion protocol and recover sufficiently from his injured non-throwing left hand to play against the Commanders. Carr did not participate in practice, as he continues to navigate his recovery.
During Wednesday’s session, reserve quarterbacks Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler shared first-team snaps. Rizzi emphasized that no starter has been named yet, adding that Carr will not be placed on injured reserve and will not require surgery. “We’re going to see how that progression plays out, first with Derek and then obviously with Jake and Spencer,” he stated.
Carr sustained his latest injury while attempting to dive for a first down in the Saints’ 14-11 victory over the New York Giants. He has already missed three games this season due to a prior oblique injury, all of which resulted in losses for New Orleans. In those games, Rattler, a rookie, started while Haener, a second-year player, served as the backup. Rattler has completed 59 of 99 passes (59.6%) for 571 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in his three starts. Haener has seen limited action, completing 14 of 29 passes (48.3%) for 177 yards and one touchdown without any interceptions.
Rizzi noted that both Haener and Rattler are similar in size and athletic ability, suggesting that either could fit into the team’s game plan without significant adjustments. “They’re both similar-size guys. Their athletic ability is very similar,” Rizzi explained. “We’re not dealing with opposites on the spectrum.”
To bolster the team’s practice squad, the Saints have signed quarterback Ben DiNucci to assist with scout team duties, given that Haener and Rattler are occupied with potential starting responsibilities.
Since Rizzi took over following the firing of coach Dennis Allen, the Saints (5-8) have won three of their last four games, keeping their playoff hopes alive in the NFC South, where Tampa Bay currently leads with a 7-6 record. Rizzi reported that Carr has not experienced any setbacks in his recovery this week.
“If by the end of the week he’s unable to get any reps, then obviously we’ll go with one of the other guys,” Rizzi said.
NOTES: Running back Alvin Kamara did not practice on Wednesday due to illness. Wide receiver Chris Olave, who is out indefinitely with concussions, has returned to meetings at the Saints’ facility but has not yet made plans to resume practice. He intends to consult with neurological specialists to assess the risks of returning this season. Rizzi confirmed that the possibility of Olave playing again this year remains “on the table.”
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