Saints Shake Things Up: Rookie Jake Haener to Start in Place of Injured Derek Carr Against Commanders
Jake Haener to Make First NFL Start for Saints in Place of Injured Derek Carr Against Commanders
The New Orleans Saints have made a significant decision at quarterback, as rookie Jake Haener is set to make his first NFL start this Sunday against the Washington Commanders. With Derek Carr sidelined due to a left hand injury, Haener will take the reins of the Saints’ offense in a pivotal Week 15 matchup. This marks a crucial opportunity for the young quarterback to prove himself as the future of the position in New Orleans.
Derek Carr’s Injury Opens the Door for Haener
Carr’s injury is more than just a minor setback. According to reports, Carr’s left hand injury is severe enough to keep him out of Sunday’s game, and it may even sideline him for the rest of the season. This opens the door for Jake Haener to step in as the starting quarterback for the Saints. Haener, a fourth-round draft pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has been serving as the team’s backup quarterback this season.
While Spencer Rattler, a rookie with less experience, might have been a candidate to start, Saints head coach Dennis Allen has decided to give Haener the opportunity to lead the team. Haener previously had some playing time when Carr was sidelined earlier this season with an oblique injury. However, despite showing flashes of potential, Haener was not the one chosen to start during that stretch. Spencer Rattler was given the nod in Carr’s absence, but his tenure as the starter ended in disappointment with a 0-3 record.
Haener’s Performance So Far
Haener’s experience on the field this season has been limited, but he’s shown promise in his opportunities. So far, he has appeared in seven games, completing 14 of 29 passes (48.3%) for 177 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. While these numbers don’t jump off the page, Haener’s poise and decision-making have been highlighted by coaches and teammates alike.
This week’s start will be a big test for Haener, especially given the high stakes of the matchup against the Washington Commanders. The Saints are currently sitting at a 5-8 record, and with the season nearing its end, every game counts. Haener will need to step up if the team hopes to keep their playoff hopes alive, despite their slim chances.
A Challenging Opportunity
The task in front of Haener is not an easy one. The Washington Commanders (8-5) are riding high and are in the middle of a playoff push themselves. Haener will need to handle a tough defense and face a team with much more to play for than the Saints, who have already seen their playoff hopes dwindle. However, it’s also a great opportunity for Haener to showcase his skills under the bright lights of the NFL.
In addition to his football journey, Haener has faced significant challenges off the field. Earlier this year, he was diagnosed with skin cancer, but he hasn’t let that stop him. Despite the difficult diagnosis, Haener’s focus on football and his determination to get back to the field shows his resilience and strength. His story is one of perseverance, and now he’s ready to take the next step in his professional career by starting for the Saints.
Looking Ahead
As Haener prepares for his first NFL start, the Saints are hoping he can provide a spark. With Derek Carr’s future uncertain and the team in the midst of a rebuilding phase, Haener’s performance over the remaining games could have a lasting impact on the Saints’ quarterback situation going forward.
Sunday’s game against the Commanders will be a defining moment for Jake Haener. Can he rise to the occasion, lead the Saints to a much-needed victory, and show the organization that he’s ready for a bigger role? The spotlight is on Haener, and how he handles this moment could define the rest of his rookie season and beyond.
