Saints Injury Update: Will Derek Carr Return to New Orleans This Season?

(Photo : Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - New Orleans Saints staff walk off with Derek Carr (#4) of the New Orleans Saints to the locker room during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

Derek Carr will be out of commission for a while after suffering a shoulder injury in the New Orleans Saints' loss to the Green Bay Packers, 18-17, on Sunday, September 24.

However, the bigger question is will Derek Carr return to New Orleans this season.

Saints' Derek Carr injury status

Carr reportedly suffered an AC sprain to his right shoulder after getting sacked in the third quarter by Packers outside linebacker Rashan Gary, USA Today reported.

The former Fresno State Bulldog was rushed to the hospital after that play and was later ruled out from returning.

According to Saints coach Dennis Allen, the 32-year-old play-caller underwent x-rays to determine the extent of his injury, the Associated Press reported.

"He's being evaluated," Allen said. "I can't tell you really any more than that. It's a shoulder injury. He's being evaluated. When we know what it is, we'll let you know."

However, according to an update by Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the four-time Pro Bowler's injury is less serious than initially expected.

More: Derek Carr is believed to have suffered an AC sprain, source said. After a multitude of tests, there was no additional damage. When he plays will be determined by the swelling and how he gains mobility. https://t.co/iALy1FIBtr
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 24, 2023

While that may be good news for Saints fans, a Derek Carr return will still depend on the swelling and his mobility. Hence, a huge question remains if a Derek Carr return to New Orleans this season is feasible.

Saints turn to Jameis Winston

In the meantime, the Saints are expected to turn to Jameis Winston for now with Carr sidelined.

The 29-year-old play-caller is no stranger calling the plays for the Saints, starting seven games in 2021 before incurring a season-ending knee injury.

Jameis Winston also started in the first three games of the New Orleans Saints last NFL season before Andy Dalton took over.

Carr completed 13 of 18 passes for 103 yards and a touchdown Sunday before leaving the game, while Winston finished with 101 yards on 10-of-16 passing.