Saints Bolster Quarterback Depth with Ben DiNucci Signing
In what could be a crucial decision for the New Orleans Saints' season, the team has strategically reinforced its quarterback roster by signing veteran Ben DiNucci. This move follows the troubling departure of Derek Carr from last Sunday's game, where the Saints triumphed over the New York Giants. Carr sustained multiple injuries that are likely to have significant implications for the remainder of the NFL season.
Derek Carr's Injuries and Implications
Derek Carr's exit from the game is gravely concerning for the Saints. Medical evaluations have unveiled that Carr is dealing with a fracture in his non-throwing hand coupled with a concussion. These injuries are expected to sideline him for several weeks, and there is the unsettling possibility that he might miss the rest of the season. Nonetheless, in a display of cautious optimism or strategic planning, the Saints have opted against placing Carr on injured reserve as of now.
Enter Ben DiNucci
Ben DiNucci, who joins the Saints with a diverse and global football experience, was originally drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the seventh round in 2020. During his rookie season, DiNucci had limited opportunity to showcase his potential, starting in one game and completing 21 of 40 passes for 180 yards. Though waived by the Cowboys in the summer of 2022, DiNucci has kept himself active in competitive play.
After his NFL debut, DiNucci transitioned to the XFL, where he served as a quarterback for the Seattle Sea Dragons. In this role, he not only secured a starting position in 10 games but also led the league with an impressive 7-3 record. Such performance underscored his ability to adapt and lead an offensive line effectively, marking him as a viable candidate for NFL teams in search of depth at the quarterback position.
DiNucci's NFL Comeback
DiNucci's journey continued as he spent the 2023 NFL season on the practice squad of the Denver Broncos, further honing his skills and staying ready for an opportunity like the current one with the Saints. Additionally, he had a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills during the 2023 summer training camp, suggesting his continued relevance and readiness to step into a team's quarterback rotation when needed.
New Orleans' Quarterback Strategy
With Carr's health status up in the air, the Saints have strategized to potentially configure their quarterback lineup with a robust quartet. This framework could include Jake Haener, rookie Spencer Rattler, and now Ben DiNucci. If Derek Carr remains off the injured reserve, this configuration provides both flexibility and coverage, allowing the Saints to adapt to various game scenarios while minimizing risk.
The decision to bring DiNucci on board reflects a prudent approach by the Saints' management, aiming to sustain their offensive momentum as the NFL season progresses. Given his diverse experience and proven capabilities at different levels of professional football, DiNucci is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting the Saints' ambitions as they navigate the challenges imposed by Carr’s absence.
In sum, while Derek Carr's injuries present a daunting challenge, the Saints' proactive signing of Ben DiNucci provides insurance and reinvigorates their quarterback lineup. These calculated moves will undoubtedly be a focal point for fans and analysts alike as the New Orleans Saints strive to maintain their competitive edge through the remaining weeks of the season.