### Uncertainty Surrounds Derek Carr's Future with the Saints Amid Shoulder Injury Concerns The New Orleans Saints are grappling with uncertainty regarding their starting quarterback, Derek Carr, who is currently dealing with a shoulder injury. General Manager Mickey Loomis confirmed the injury during a press conference, stating that the team is awaiting further clarity on Carr's condition. Loomis declined to provide specifics about the injury or Carr's status for the upcoming season, leading to speculation about the team's plans as they approach the NFL Draft. The Saints have not ruled out the possibility of drafting a quarterback, especially given Carr's uncertain future and the team's need for a reliable option at the position [https://www.reuters.com/sports/saints-gm-derek-carr-has-shoulder-injury-wont-address-2025-status-2025-04-24][https://www.si.com/nfl/saints-derek-carr-nfl-draft-plans]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation 1. **Injury Confirmation**: - Mickey Loomis confirmed that Derek Carr has a shoulder "issue" but did not elaborate on its severity or potential impact on his playing status for the 2025 season [https://www.usnews.com/news/sports/articles/2025-04-23/gm-loomis-saints-lacking-clarity-on-qb-derek-carrs-shoulder-issue]. 2. **Draft Implications**: - The uncertainty surrounding Carr's health has led to speculation that the Saints may consider drafting a quarterback. They hold the No. 9 overall pick and have been linked to prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart [https://www.clutchpoints.com/nfl/new-orleans-saints/saints-rumors-matt-miller-hints-at-qb-decision-draft]. 3. **Team's Stance**: - Despite the injury concerns, Loomis stated that the team is not altering their draft strategy and is hopeful for a resolution regarding Carr's condition soon [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/saints-hope-resolution-clarity-derek-180815690.html]. 4. **Backup Options**: - With Carr's injury, the Saints are in a precarious position, as backup quarterback Spencer Rattler has not proven to be a reliable option. This situation raises the stakes for the upcoming draft [https://www.clutchpoints.com/nfl/new-orleans-saints/saints-news-gm-shoots-down-derek-carr-injury-question-before-2025-nfl-draft]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Injury Reports**: - Reports indicate that Carr's shoulder injury could potentially require surgery, which would significantly impact his availability for the 2025 season [https://www.timesng.com/saints-face-quarterback-crisis]. - **Draft Prospects**: - The Saints are reportedly considering several quarterbacks in the draft, with Shedeur Sanders emerging as a popular choice among analysts [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/consensus-building-qb-saints-shedeur-143657371.html]. - **Team's Current Roster**: - The Saints currently have only one viable backup option in Rattler, which puts additional pressure on the team to secure a quarterback in the draft [https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/new-details-saints-qb-derek-carr-shoulder-injury-2025-nfl-draft/article_dc690b01-25ed-49d1-859a-a5afc8dd3336.html]. ### Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty in the Saints' Quarterback Situation In summary, the New Orleans Saints are facing a critical juncture as they navigate Derek Carr's shoulder injury and its implications for the upcoming NFL season. The team's lack of clarity on Carr's health has prompted discussions about potential quarterback options in the draft. 1. **Injury Status**: Carr's shoulder injury remains a significant concern, with Loomis providing limited information. 2. **Draft Strategy**: The Saints may need to pivot their draft strategy to include a quarterback, given Carr's uncertain future. 3. **Backup Viability**: The reliance on Spencer Rattler as a backup raises questions about the team's readiness for the season. The Saints must act decisively in the upcoming draft to address their quarterback needs, ensuring they are prepared for any outcome regarding Carr's health [https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44820766/saints-hope-clarity-derek-carr-pick-olave-option].