There are three weeks left in the 2024 regular season, and the New Orleans Saints are 5-9, with a nearly impossible path to the postseason. In other words, the season is essentially over for the team. Despite the lack of stakes in the final three games for New Orleans, the franchise is still juggling some big decisions.
The Saints must decide who QB1 will be for the remainder of the season. Fans have already reached a decision, as they are making a case for rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler to start the remaining three games. Following Derek Carr’s injury in Week 14, Jake Haener started the Week 15 game for New Orleans, but was replaced by Rattler in the third quarter.
Rattler outperformed Haener, so it seemed like a no-brainer decision that the rookie would start the rest of the year. However, interim head coach Darren Rizzi wouldn’t commit to Rattler as the starter, because the team was holding out hope that Carr could return this year. After a recent update, it seems like the decision has been made for New Orleans.
On Tuesday, it was reported that Carr underwent further examination on his right hand, and it was determined that he’s still a few weeks away from being able to play. With only three weeks left in the regular season, that means he won’t be playing again this season.
For New Orleans, that means it’s, rightfully, Rattler time.
Sources: #Saints QB Derek Carr underwent further examination recently and he’s at least a few weeks away from being able to withstand contact. With 3 weeks remaining, a return this season is described as very unlikely.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 17, 2024
Carr has been out with a left hand fractured in two places. pic.twitter.com/YKT5Gmz8cL
Spencer Rattler likely to start for Saints with Derek Carr still injured
Many Saints fans would argue Rattler should start the final three games even if Carr was ready to return. Sure, Carr gives the team the better chance to win right now, but wins don’t mean much for New Orleans at this point of the season. Getting clarity on the future of the franchise is much more important than possibly winning games that won’t change the fate of the season.
By starting Rattler, the Saints will get an extended look at a rookie quarterback with the potential to be the team’s next franchise QB. Additionally, the opportunity gives Rattler some much-needed reps. Based on how the next three games unfold, the Saints could get a better idea of what decisions they want to make in the offseason.