NEW DELHI: Saints quarterback Derek Carr has cleared the concussion protocol, boosting the chances of his starting against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Despite leaving the previous week's game with a concussion, shoulder, and rib injuries, Carr, listed as questionable, participated in every practice this week.
“I have felt better, but I'm doing great,” Carr said after clearing the protocol.
“I don't really have any concerns. Our doctors and the non-affiliated doctor said everything was perfect.”
Facing booing from the Superdome crowd in the last game, Carr and the Saints fell behind 21-0 in the first seven minutes. Despite the negativity, Carr remains focused on the game.
“It’s a part of the game sometimes, especially when you’re losing a football game the way we were losing,” Carr said. “But I was proud of the way we fought back and turned those things into some loud cheers.”
Preparing for this week's game was more time-consuming due to Carr's injuries, but he emphasized commitment to his job.
“I always believe to give anything less than your best is to sacrifice your gift, so I’m never going to give anything less,” Carr stated. “The work will get done. Maybe it will get done a little later than usual, but whatever it takes, you’ve got to get the work done.”
Multi-position player Taysom Hill is listed as questionable with hand and foot injuries. Leading receiver Chris Olave is also questionable due to an illness; he participated remotely in the game plan to minimize the risk of spreading the illness to teammates.
(With AP inputs)