NFL News Roundup: Raiders QB Aidan O’Connell Questionable, Saints QB Derek Carr Downgraded to Out
The NFL injury bug continues to bite, with two high-profile quarterbacks now facing uncertain statuses for Week 17 matchups. Here’s the latest on the injury front:
Raiders QB Aidan O’Connell Questionable vs. Falcons
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell is officially questionable for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons due to a knee injury. O’Connell suffered the injury during last week’s loss to the San Francisco 49ers and was forced to leave the game in the third quarter. He underwent an MRI on Monday, which revealed no structural damage.
O’Connell has been a bright spot for the Raiders this season, leading the team to a 5-3 record as a starter. He has thrown for 1,725 yards, 14 touchdowns, and six interceptions. If O’Connell is unable to play, backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham is expected to make his first start of the season.
Saints QB Derek Carr Downgraded to Out
New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has been downgraded to out for Monday Night Football against the Philadelphia Eagles. Carr injured his ankle in the Saints’ Week 16 loss to the Cleveland Browns and was initially listed as questionable for Week 17. However, he was unable to practice fully this week and has now been ruled out.
Andy Dalton will start in place of Carr. Dalton has thrown for 1,246 yards, eight touchdowns, and six interceptions in 10 games this season. The Saints will need Dalton to play well if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Other Notable Injuries
- Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (knee): Out for the season
- Cincinnati Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase (hip): Questionable vs. Buffalo Bills
- Kansas City Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon (ankle): Out vs. Denver Broncos
- Philadelphia Eagles WR A.J. Brown (ankle): Questionable vs. New Orleans Saints
- Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris (hip): Questionable vs. Cleveland Browns
These injuries could have a significant impact on the outcome of Week 17 games and the NFL playoff race. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.