Saints Fortify Quarterback Roster with Ben DiNucci Signing
In a decisive move to address their quarterback needs following an injury setback, the New Orleans Saints have secured veteran quarterback Ben DiNucci. The acquisition aims to solidify the team’s quarterback lineup after a challenging week that saw their starting quarterback, Derek Carr, suffer significant injuries.
Derek Carr's Injury Concerns
During Sunday’s triumphant outing against the New York Giants, Derek Carr was forced to exit the game prematurely due to injuries. Medical assessments have identified two key injuries: a fracture in Carr's non-throwing hand and a concussion. Such conditions are projected to keep him sidelined for several weeks, raising the possibility that he might miss the remainder of the season.
Despite the severity of his injuries, the Saints are reportedly mulling over the decision to not place Carr on injured reserve. This suggests an uncertain timeline regarding his potential return but leaves the door open for a comeback if his recovery progresses positively.
The Experience of DiNucci
Ben DiNucci, brought in to provide depth and experience, has had a varied career trajectory since being drafted in the seventh round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. During his stint with the Cowboys, DiNucci started one game in his rookie season, managing to complete 21 of 40 passes for 180 yards. However, his time with the Cowboys ended when he was waived in the summer of 2022.
DiNucci didn't hang up his cleats after his departure from the NFL. Instead, he revitalized his career in the XFL, suiting up for the Seattle Sea Dragons. In the XFL, he shone brightly, leading the league in passing, and concluded with an impressive 7-3 record over 10 starts. This performance not only kept him relevant but evidently contributed to his current NFL opportunity with the Saints.
Earlier in 2023, DiNucci was part of the Denver Broncos, albeit on their practice squad. His journey also saw a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills during their summer training camp, showcasing his resilience and adaptability in navigating the challenging NFL landscape.
Saints' Quarterback Options
With the likelihood of Carr's absence, the Saints are considering employing a quartet of quarterbacks to ensure stability and performance. Should DiNucci be added to the active roster, he will join the ranks alongside Jake Haener and promising rookie Spencer Rattler. This setup exemplifies the team’s strategy to maintain a robust quarterback presence as they navigate the remaining games of the season.
The decision not to place Carr on injured reserve signals a cautious optimism from the team's management, reflecting the significance of his role as a seasoned leader on the field. Meanwhile, DiNucci's signing indicates a calculated gamble on his experience and recent successes to deliver under pressure.
For New Orleans, bolstering their quarterback arsenal with a mix of seasoned and emerging talents seems a prudent approach, particularly as they aim to build on their early-season momentum. DiNucci’s journey, marked by resilience and a return to form in the XFL, adds a compelling chapter to the Saints' ongoing narrative in their pursuit of success this NFL season.