New Orleans Saints Bolster Quarterback Roster by Signing Ben DiNucci
The New Orleans Saints have acted swiftly to strengthen their quarterback ranks following the anticipated absence of Derek Carr, who sustained multiple injuries in Sunday's clash against the New York Giants. The team announced that they have signed veteran quarterback Ben DiNucci, aiming to add depth and stability to their roster.
Setbacks for Derek Carr
The Saints' starting quarterback, Derek Carr, faced a cumbersome blow in their latest victory, withdrawing from the game after a series of injuries. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed the extent of Carr's injuries: a fracture in his non-throwing hand coupled with a concussion. These injuries cast a shadow over his playing prospects for the coming weeks, with the likelihood that Carr could be sidelined for an extended period, potentially covering the remainder of the season. Despite this, the Saints are weighing their options, reportedly deliberating on whether to place Carr on injured reserve or not.
Ben DiNucci: A Fresh Addition
In response to the uncertainty surrounding Carr's recovery, the Saints have turned to Ben DiNucci, a quarterback with a story that traverses multiple teams and leagues. Originally selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft, DiNucci's journey in professional football has seen a variety of turns. During his rookie season with the Cowboys, DiNucci started one game, where he completed 21 of 40 passes, compiling 180 yards. However, he was waived by Dallas in the summer of 2022.
DiNucci's career took a distinctive path as he joined the Seattle Sea Dragons in the XFL, where he started 10 games. Notably, he emerged as the leading passer in the XFL league, steering his team to a commendable 7-3 record. His performance in the XFL bolstered his experience, showcasing his abilities as a reliable quarterback.
In addition to his XFL success, DiNucci had a stint with the Denver Broncos, spending the 2023 season on their practice squad. His journey continued with a brief period at the Buffalo Bills during their 2023 summer training camp. Now, as he joins the Saints, DiNucci brings a wealth of diverse experiences to the table.
Saints' Quarterback Landscape
The integration of DiNucci into the Saints' lineup suggests that the team might house a quartet of quarterbacks in the absence of Carr. The potential lineup could include Jake Haener and rookie Spencer Rattler, assuming Carr does not end up on injured reserve and DiNucci is elevated to the active roster. This depth at the quarterback position could provide the Saints with a plethora of options as they navigate the challenges posed by Carr's injuries.
Adding DiNucci offers the Saints a blend of experience and versatility, crucial for a team aiming to navigate through the unpredictable twists of an NFL season. The decision to sign DiNucci indicates the Saints' proactive approach in fortifying their roster, preparing for any scenario that might unfold as they progress through the league.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the Saints as they strategize how to best utilize their quarterback resources, ensuring they remain competitive in the league amid the setback of losing their primary signal-caller. As the team adapts and recalibrates, DiNucci's role will likely evolve, offering him a chance to make a significant impact in New Orleans.