Saints Sign Veteran QB Ben DiNucci as Depth Concerns Mount
In the ebb and flow of an NFL season, adaptability can be the difference between triumph and setback. The New Orleans Saints are embracing this philosophy as they bolster their quarterback ranks following a jarring injury to their starter, Derek Carr. The team's quick response was to bring veteran quarterback Ben DiNucci into the fold, a move that underscores the critical need for depth and experience at the quarterback position.
Derek Carr's Setback
The Saints are navigating stormy waters after their recent victory over the New York Giants was marred by the loss of Carr. Medical evaluations post-game revealed that Carr sustained a fracture in his non-throwing hand in addition to suffering a concussion. These injuries have cast a shadow over his availability for the coming weeks and possibly for the rest of the season. While the prospect of placing Carr on injured reserve looms, the Saints are opting for caution, potentially leaving a door open for his return this season.
DiNucci's NFL Journey
Ben DiNucci's NFL journey has been a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Drafted in the seventh round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, DiNucci's rookie season was highlighted by a solitary start where he completed 21 of 40 passes for 180 yards. Despite early promise, his tenure with the Cowboys was cut short when the team waived him in the summer of 2022.
Not one to give up, DiNucci found a new avenue for his career in the XFL, where he showcased his abilities as the starting quarterback for the Seattle Sea Dragons. Over the course of 10 games, he led the league in passing with an impressive 7-3 record, reviving interest in his capacity to command an offense.
2023 saw DiNucci involved in the orbit of the NFL once more, spending time on the Denver Broncos' practice squad and briefly participating in the Buffalo Bills' summer training camp. This stint affirmed his resilience and readiness to step up when called upon.
Strategic Implications for the Saints
With DiNucci's signing, the Saints potentially deepen their quarterback bench, ensuring they are not caught off guard as they push through the late stages of the season. The addition of DiNucci, coupled with the presence of Jake Haener and rookie Spencer Rattler, paints a picture of a team bracing itself with multiple options should Carr's absence be extended.
This quarterback setup indicates the Saints’ strategic flexibility, allowing them not only to bolster their lineup with experienced hands but also to provide their young quarterbacks the opportunity to learn and develop alongside seasoned peers. The Saints’ decision-making here reflects a balance between seizing short-term opportunities and grooming long-term prospects.
A Move Beyond the Field
As the Saints gear up for the remainder of the season, the psychological boost from adding a resilient player like DiNucci cannot be understated. His journey through the league and his tenacity mirror the spirit the Saints will hope to channel on the field. It's a strategic move that combines tactical foresight with an eye for character, the kind that can often tip the scales in high-pressure environments.
For DiNucci, the opportunity with the Saints is a chance to re-affirm his place in the NFL, offering him a platform to demonstrate the growth and grit developed through his diverse experiences within and outside the league.
Ultimately, this signing is as much about securing an immediate need as it is about investing in the kind of depth and resilience that can drive a team into the deeper realms of the season. With eyes firmly set on maintaining momentum, the Saints demonstrate a vigilant approach, aiming to ensure the season remains promising and competitive even amidst adversity.