Alvin Kamara’s groin injury is “a little bit more significant” than the New Orleans Saints originally believed, raising questions about how many of the team’s final three games he might miss, according to special teams coach Darren Rizzi.
“He’s going to be week to week at the moment, and to be honest, it doesn’t look great for this week,” Rizzi said as the Saints prepare to face the Green Bay Packers on Monday night. “We’ll play that one by ear to see if it’s going to be multiple weeks.”
Rizzi also addressed speculation regarding quarterback Derek Carr, stating he has not been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Additionally, he mentioned that top receiver Chris Olave, who has suffered two concussions this season, has entered a 21-day period during which he can practice without affecting the active roster.
Initial tests on Kamara had suggested the injury might not be severe, but Rizzi indicated that the outlook has changed. “It’s now viewed as a little bit more significant, a little bit more missed time,” he said, adding that surgery has not been ruled out. “There are multiple opinions and different ways to handle it. The medical staff, Alvin, and everyone involved will take a deep breath and assess the best option moving forward. Hopefully, we can get him back by the end of the year, but we’ll see.”
As for Carr, Rizzi emphasized that the quarterback is eager to return to the field. “He wants to come back and play. There is absolutely zero doubt about that,” Rizzi stated. “He’s in here every day, doing everything he can from a rehab standpoint.”
Although Carr has not practiced since injuring his left, non-throwing hand in a narrow victory over the New York Giants two Sundays ago, the Saints have not ruled him out for the upcoming game against Green Bay. Backup quarterback Spencer Rattler is preparing to start if Carr is unable to play.
Rizzi acknowledged Carr’s determination, saying, “I appreciate and respect the fact he wants to come back. We’re not going to put him in harm’s way. We need to ensure he can fully function in all the duties as a quarterback before he returns.”
“If he were done for the season, we would have placed him on injured reserve by now,” Rizzi added. “That’s just not the case.”
Regarding Olave, Rizzi expressed optimism despite suggesting it was “probably doubtful” he would play again this season. “Getting cleared for football activities is great news,” Rizzi said. “We’re going to take it step by step with him. I couldn’t be happier for him as a person and as a player.”
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