The New Orleans Saints had some rough quarterback play in their Week 8 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Spencer Rattler had a rough outing, getting benched in the second half.
Jake Haener entered and showed a few flashes of good play. Overall, though, neither option was particularly impressive against Los Angeles. Accordingly, the need for the return of starting QB Derek Carr has only grown in recent weeks. At 2-6, it may be too little - too late.
How close is Carr to getting back on the field for New Orleans? There were some notable updates on Monday afternoon.
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in his Monday press conference, Saints head coach Dennis Allen updated Carr's status. He expects the starter to practice on Wednesday, and he is optimistic about his potential availability for Week 9.
Carr had another throwing session on Monday. He is working towards his return. Carr began throwing sessions again last week, but he was listed as doubtful then made inactive in Week 8.
Clearly, New Orleans has not rushed him back. That should not surprise anyone, considering the ailment. It has not been a pain tolerance problem for the veteran QB.
Rather, it's been a functionality issue. Carr truly cannot make plays that he feels the need to make as the starting QB. He physically has not been able to make certain motions due to the oblique injury, but it seems like he is getting close to rejoining the offense for the Saints.
If Carr can start in Week 9, fans will probably feel better about the team's chances to beat the Carolina Panthers for the second time so far this season to end their six-game losing skid.
