Saints Bolster QB Roster Amid Carr's Injuries
In a strategic maneuver designed to strengthen their quarterback lineup, the New Orleans Saints have taken a proactive step by signing veteran quarterback Ben DiNucci. This decision comes on the heels of a concerning set of injuries sustained by their starting quarterback, Derek Carr, during Sunday’s match against the New York Giants.
Derek Carr left the field experiencing severe discomfort, and subsequent medical evaluations have shed light on the gravity of his condition. The examinations revealed a fracture in Carr's non-throwing hand, coupled with a concussion, an unfortunate combination that is expected to sideline him for several weeks. In a worst-case scenario, these injuries may prevent Carr from playing for the remainder of the season.
Saints' Dilemma: To Place on IR or Not
The Saints find themselves in a predicament. While the typical course of action in such scenarios might be to place Carr on injured reserve, thus freeing up a roster spot, the team is reportedly considering keeping him off the list. This decision hints at a cautious optimism regarding his potential recovery timeline, as well as the strategic implications of retaining flexibility in the roster.
Introducing Ben DiNucci
To mitigate the impact of Carr’s absence, the Saints have looked towards Ben DiNucci. Originally drafted in the seventh round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, DiNucci's NFL journey has been a rollercoaster. He took to the field for the Cowboys during his rookie season, starting one game and completing 21 of his 40 pass attempts for a total of 180 yards. Despite this experience, he was waived by the Cowboys in the summer of 2022.
The 2023 season saw DiNucci transitioning to the Denver Broncos, where he spent his time on the practice squad before a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills during their summer training camp. These cumulative experiences have seasoned DiNucci, preparing him for a fresh opportunity with the Saints.
Making Waves in the XFL
Beyond the NFL, DiNucci has showcased his skills in the XFL with the Seattle Sea Dragons. There, he demonstrated considerable prowess, starting 10 games and leading the league in passing with an impressive 7-3 record. This period allowed him to further hone his skills and maintain his competitive edge, making him a valuable asset to any NFL team seeking depth in the quarterback position.
Quarterback Quartet on the Horizon
With DiNucci now part of the New Orleans lineup, the Saints' quarterback depth could potentially feature a quartet if Carr remains active. This would include Jake Haener and rookie Spencer Rattler, a scenario that underscores the team's determination to fortify their critical playmaking position amid unforeseen challenges.
As the Saints brace for the weeks ahead, the integration of Ben DiNucci signals a stride towards resilience and adaptability. With Carr's health in question, DiNucci's versatility and experience across different football arenas could prove pivotal for the Saints as they navigate the remainder of the season.