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The Derek Carr experience in New Orleans is not going to plan. Despite signing the former Raiders quarterback to a four-year, $150 million contract this offseason, the Saints have yet to see play under center that matches the price tag.
Carr has been highly inconsistent overall, struggling against the blitz and all but collapsing when pressured. When pressured this season, Carr completes just 48.1% of his passes, takes a sack on 16.7% of his dropbacks, and averages 6 yards per attempt and a 2.8% turnover-worthy play rate per PFF. Against the blitz, his overall numbers are better but he is more likely to take a negative play as his turnover-worthy play rate goes up to 4.1% and his pressure-to-sack rate goes up to 22.2%.
Carr’s shortcomings are often compensated by the Saints’ stellar receiving corps, but forcing him to play through constant pressure has often succeeded in stalling the New Orleans offense this season. It worked in their last matchup with the Bucs—it would likely work again this week.
