Saints HC Optimistic Derek Carr Will Return from Oblique Injury vs. Panthers

New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen revealed that Derek Carr is expected to return to practice on Wednesday and is "optimistic" about the quarterback's opportunity to return in Week 9.

Carr hasn't played since Week 5 due to an oblique injury.

He's been replaced by rookie Spencer Rattler under center, but the Saints have still continued a six-game losing streak following a 26-8 defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

Carr didn't participate in practice leading up to the loss to the Chargers and was listed as doubtful before he ultimately wasn't able to play.

While New Orleans' losing streak started with the veteran, the team has been much less competitive with Rattler starting. The fifth-round pick in the 2024 draft has completed just 59.6 percent of his throws for 571 yards and one touchdown to go along with two interceptions.

The Saints have been outscored 110-45 in Rattler's three starts and he was benched for Jake Haener during the second half of Sunday's defeat.

New Orleans opened the season on a high note, winning its first two games and scoring at least 44 points in both contests. Carr initially looked comfortable in new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's system, throwing for 989 yards and eight touchdowns while completing 70.3 percent of his passes.

If he's able to return in Week 9, he'll need to survive without several targets. Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed is out for the season after suffering a meniscus injury in Week 6 while rookie wideout Bub Means is also expected to miss time due to an ankle sprain that he suffered against Los Angeles.

Carr should still be able to get comfortable in the pocket if he can come back, as the Saints travel to face a Carolina Panthers team that owns the worst scoring defense in the NFL.