Derek Carr’s tenure with the New Orleans Saints has taken a concerning turn as the team dropped to a 5-6 record after a disheartening 24-15 loss to division rivals, the Atlanta Falcons.
In the recent game, New Orleans struggled to find the end zone, relying on five field goals from Blake Grupe. Carr’s performance was lackluster, completing 24-of-38 passes for 304 yards with zero touchdowns and a crucial interception. The interception, returned 92 yards for a touchdown by Jessie Bates, proved pivotal in the Saints’ defeat.
While leading 3-0 late in the first quarter, Carr’s mistake altered the course of the game, contributing to New Orleans falling below a .500 record. The team’s ongoing challenges include untimely errors and difficulties in converting opportunities in the red zone, ranking in the bottom 10 for red-zone percentage entering Week 12.
Derek Carr acknowledged communication issues and misalignment during red-zone struggles earlier in the season, emphasizing the need for improvement to avoid a recurring “sucky feeling.”
The recent loss not only dropped the Saints to 5-6 but also created a first-place tie with the Falcons in what is considered one of the NFL’s weakest divisions. The division’s subpar performance might offer a slight reprieve, but questions now arise regarding the wisdom of signing Derek Carr.
Derek Carr: Not the Long-Term Answer
Carr, 32, signed a hefty four-year, $150 million contract with the Saints in the past offseason after spending nine seasons with the Raiders. While the Raiders’ decision to bench Carr late last season raised eyebrows, his consistent performance amidst organizational challenges showcased his value.
However, Carr’s first 11 games with the Saints have not solidified him as an elite quarterback. Despite being on pace for nearly 4,000 yards, his touchdown production has been underwhelming with just 10 in 11 games. This contrasts sharply with his performance in Las Vegas, where he threw 47 touchdowns in 32 starts over a two-year span.
The critical question emerges: Was signing Carr a mistake for New Orleans? Could a more budget-friendly option like Jameis Winston have achieved a similar 5-6 record through 12 weeks?
With an exit clause in Carr’s contract following the 2024 season, the Saints have a financial escape route, saving approximately $23 million against the cap. The team now faces the dilemma of deciding on a quarterback beyond Carr, especially with the 2024 NFL Draft offering a rich pool of talent at the position.
As New Orleans navigates a challenging season, the decision to sign Derek Carr becomes a focal point for the team’s future, potentially shaping its quarterback strategy heading into 2024.