Saints' Derek Carr clears concussion protocol

New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr cleared the NFL's concussion protocol on Friday and is likely to start against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Carr, who sustained his second documented concussion in three weeks, left the Saints' 33-28 loss to the Detroit Lions last Sunday with a concussion plus rib and shoulder injuries. It's the third time this season the 32-year-old quarterback has left a game early due to injury.

Carr, who has yet to miss a start this season despite the injuries, returned to practice Wednesday but was limited. He was a full participant in practice Friday, though he was listed as questionable for DSunday.

"I don't really have any concerns," Carr said when asked about the concussion issues. "I did some extra tests and things like that this week, just checking on things. Our doctors and the non-affiliated doctor said everything was perfect, they showed me the results in comparison to things.

"I do not have any worries on that stuff. It didn't feel like the two were even related to one another. So, for me, that's just sometimes the price of doing business and playing football. So no concern on that part, long term or short term. Fully confident that I can be all right playing with that part of it."

Carr, who signed a four-year, $150 million contract in March, has thrown for 2,761 yards with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions in his first season with the Saints. The four-time Pro Bowl quarterback has thrown for 37,983 yards with 228 touchdowns and 105 interceptions in 154 games during his 10-year career.

—Field Level Media