After he was unable to finish last week’s game against the Green Bay Packers because of a shoulder injury, most assumed New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr would be unable to suit up on Sunday to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
However, Carr apparently has a chance to play for the Saints this week in their big divisional matchup against the Bucs.
The veteran quarterback was a limited participant in New Orleans’ practice on Friday, and according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, the team is feeling optimistic that he will be able to start against Tampa Bay on Sunday.
Against all odds, there is now optimism that #Saints QB Derek Carr (right shoulder) plays against the #Bucs, sources say. Dealing with an AC sprain, Carr did practice on a limited basis on Friday. The coaches will need to know he can protect himself. But there is a chance.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 1, 2023
After nine years as a member of the Las Vegas Raiders, Carr signed with the Saints this past March, and he’s looked solid for his new team so far this season.
In three games for New Orleans this year, the veteran quarterback has completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 636 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.
If Carr is able to take the field on Sunday, he’ll be going up against a Bucs team that has been a bit of a surprise so far this season, with wins in two of their first three games.
Tampa Bay’s only loss this year was last week when they fell to the defending NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles by a final score of 25-11.
Both the Saints and Bucs will be looking to get their seasons back on track after each team suffered a loss last week, so expect Sunday’s matchup to be an intense battle between two bitter rivals.
If Carr is unable to suit up, New Orleans will likely start Jameis Winston under center.
NEXT: Analyst Notes Derek Carr's Chances To Start Against Bucs
