Rewritten: Written by BRETT MARTEL, a sports writer for the Associated Press.

NEW ORLEANS

The New Orleans Saints announced that quarterback Derek Carr has passed the concussion protocol on Friday night, making it more likely that he will be the starting quarterback for their game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Carr, who suffered a concussion, shoulder, and rib injuries in last week’s 33-28 loss to Detroit, was marked as questionable on the injury report released on Friday.

Nevertheless, he took part in every practice this week, albeit to a limited extent.

“I am in a better state now, and I am doing well,” Carr stated after successfully completing the protocol following two concussions within 22 days.

Carr explained that he has no worries, as both his own doctors and an outside doctor have confirmed that everything is in excellent condition.

Carr’s physical harm occurred following being jeered by the audience at the Superdome during his entrance onto the field, beginning during initial preparations and continuing throughout the majority of the game on Sunday.

Thanks to an interception on Carr’s initial throw, the Lions quickly scored three touchdowns in the first seven minutes. Although New Orleans managed to narrow the gap to 24-21, Carr’s fumble, caused by Hurst, led to yet another Detroit touchdown.

As Carr talked about coming back to play at the Superdome this Sunday, he dismissed the negative energy coming from the fans in the stadium.

Carr acknowledged that experiencing setbacks is a normal aspect of playing sports, particularly when facing a deficit like we were in the football game. However, he was pleased with how we persevered and transformed those challenges into moments of celebration.

According to Carr, getting ready for this week’s match demanded a greater amount of time than usual due to his multiple health issues.

“I completed my treatment and followed my protocol, but most importantly, I made sure to do everything necessary to fulfill my responsibilities,” stated Carr. “I firmly believe that not giving your best is equivalent to wasting your talent, so I will always give my all.”

Carr reassured, “The task will be completed. It may be completed slightly later than usual, but it’s important to make sure the work is finished.”

Taysom Hill, a versatile player, was reported as questionable due to hand and foot injuries after not participating in practice this week. Another player, top receiver Chris Olave, also had a questionable status after being absent from Thursday and Friday’s practices due to an illness. Coach Dennis Allen stated that Olave participated remotely in team meetings and was asked to stay away from team facilities as a precaution to prevent spreading the illness to other players.

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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL

Source: wralsportsfan.com