Chris Olave, the New Orleans Saints' leading wide receiver, has been sidelined since Week 9 due to a concussion sustained during a game against the Carolina Panthers. The Saints placed him on injured reserve on November 10, which means he is set to miss at least four games. As he becomes eligible to return, uncertainty surrounds his status for the remainder of the season.

The Saints have struggled offensively in Olave's absence, compounded by injuries to other key players. While he has attended team meetings, his practice window has not opened, indicating he may not be ready to return to action. The team faces a dilemma regarding his health versus the need for his contributions as they aim for a playoff push.

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is set to return to injured reserve due to a PCL injury, with a recovery timeline of approximately six weeks. This effectively ends his fantasy season, although he may return if the team advances deep into the playoffs.

Jordan Mason will also join him on IR with a high ankle sprain, leaving Isaac Guerendo as the likely starting running back. The 49ers may need to acquire additional running backs to bolster their roster.

The Washington Commanders have signed kicker Zane Gonzalez to their active roster after elevating him from the practice squad for the third time this season. This move comes as the team needed a reliable kicker following Austin Seibert's placement on injured reserve.

Gonzalez had previously filled in for Seibert during two games in November and contributed to the team's victory over the Titans.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs is making progress in the concussion protocol and could potentially play in the upcoming Thursday Night Football game against the Detroit Lions.

Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints are preparing to open the practice window for running back Kendre Miller and wide receiver Bub Means as they return from injured reserve. Taysom Hill has been confirmed out for the season due to an ACL injury, impacting the Saints' offensive strategy.

In other news, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is set to start in Week 14 despite ongoing struggles, with speculation about his future as the team's starter.

Derek Carr is set to return as the starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints against the Carolina Panthers after a three-game absence due to an oblique injury. Coach Dennis Allen confirmed that Jake Haener will serve as Carr's backup, despite rookie Spencer Rattler starting in Carr's place.

Carr expressed frustration over missing games, describing the recovery process as slow but crediting the Saints' training staff for their support. He also sought advice from former Saints quarterback Drew Brees regarding mechanics following a similar injury.

Despite the Saints' struggles, Carr emphasized he is not a 'savior' but aims to be a strong leader and teammate. He is committed to putting in the effort needed to help the team turn its fortunes around as they face a six-game losing streak.