NFL Concussion Update – as Derek Carr Handed All Clear, Alex Highsmith Enters Protocol Scenario Ahead of Mini Bye

A total of 149 concussions have been observed this season so far. This indicates an 18% increase in concussion injuries compared to the previous season, which totaled 126 injuries. The latest significant players to join the list of those with concussion injuries this season are Derek Carr and Alex Highsmith.

While New Orleans Saints’ QB Carr appears to be recovering well, Pittsburgh Steelers’ OL Highsmith is set to face challenges in the upcoming days. This implies the Steelers have lost one of their defensive stars from the team, and his return might not be as immediate as anticipated. Nonetheless, there’s a glimmer of hope for the franchise and fans, as he could potentially make a comeback in the next game.

Update on Alex Highsmith’s condition

During a Patriots red zone run, Alex Highsmith remained on the ground, visibly in pain while teammates gathered around him. This occurred with 14 minutes and 47 seconds left in the second quarter after a run by Patriots’ Ezekiel Elliot. Trainers came to assess his condition, and with their assistance, he managed to stand before walking off on his own. Highsmith was then taken to a medical tent and later declared to have a neck injury, being listed as questionable to return to the game.

As per the latest update from NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Highsmith has entered the NFL’s concussion protocol post the game, and “has more time to clear before their next game with the mini-bye.” The Steelers will be playing against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday, December 16, at 4:30 p.m. ET.

This means, that for Highsmith to be eligible to play in the Week 15 game, he must return to practice and successfully clear the concussion protocol, which is assessed by an independent neurologist. Fortunately, the Steelers have some extra time before their next game since they played on Thursday night.

Read more: Mike Tomlin Provides Cryptic Update on Alex Highsmith’s Neck Injury

With an additional day for practice, the athlete has three more days to recover, increasing the chances of his return within a week. And if in case he’s unable to play, the franchise will likely rely on veteran Markus Golden and rookie Nick Herbig to fill in alongside T.J. Watt. Meanwhile, on the other hand, Derek Carr is set to return to the gridiron to play against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Derek Carr is set to return after a week!

The Saints QB Derek Carr has successfully cleared the concussion protocol and got the green light to play on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. He had been under concussion protocol after a head injury during the last game against the Detroit Lions. Despite also dealing with rib and shoulder injuries, Carr fully practiced on Friday and is good to go now. This approval, which was the final step required for him to play in the upcoming games, came from an independent neurologist on Friday.

This isn’t the first time Carr has been under the concussion protocol this season. Earlier it happened in November as well, while playing against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite these rough patches and injuries, Carr hasn’t missed a game this season. Carr, in his first season with New Orleans, has thrown 11 TDs with an average of 230.1 passing yards per game, the lowest since his rookie season.

The Saints, currently 5-7, are hoping for a win after losing their last three games. Will they be able to do so? What do you think?

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