Saints injury report update a step in right direction for Derek Carr

Carr was injured in the third quarter of the Saints' 27-19 loss to the Vikings in Week 10. He remained in concussion protocol following the team's bye in Week 11, prompting concern about his availability for a crucial divisional game against the Falcons on Sunday.

By participating in practice on Wednesday, his chances of playing should increase. Earlier this season, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy suffered a concussion on "Monday Night Football" but was cleared by doctors on a Saturday after being a full participant during a Friday practice.

According to oddschecker, New Orleans (5-5) vs. Atlanta (4-6) is a pick'em. If Carr is healthy, that should give the Saints the advantage. Despite his pedestrian 89.8 passer rating, Carr has the league's lowest interception rate (1.2%) and is completing 72.2% of his attempts over his last three games.

While Carr has his fair share of detractors, few consider Falcons starting quarterback Desmond Ridder a better option despite his four game-winning drives, tied for most in the NFL. 

When New Orleans signed Carr to a four-year, $150M contract this offseason, it was to win critical games such as its pending divisional showdown. After his status was initially in doubt, it appears he might get the chance to do just that.