Derek Carr update: He is ‘50/50’ to play against Miami

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is “50/50” to play in Week 16 against the Miami Dolphins, according to coach Jon Gruden.

That is actually encouraging news, considering what it could have been. Carr left the game in the first quarter after he pulled up limping near the goal line. He did not return to the game, watching from the sidelines as backup Marcus Mariota played admirably for the Raiders in an eventual 30-27 home overtime loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.

After the game, Gruden said Carr didn’t have a groin tear, but a groin strain. The coach labeled the injury as “significant.” NFL Media reported on Friday afternoon that Carr will miss 10-14 days, so that timeline would take him out of the Miami game Dec. 26.

Therefore, he has eight days to improve ahead of schedule. Of course, the Raiders will want Carr to be ready to practice Tuesday for a real chance to play in Week 16. Gruden’s said Carr’s status will be determined in the next few days.

Logically, it would appear Carr should be ready to play in Week 17 at Denver, whether the Raiders (who have very slim playoff hopes) are still alive in the playoff picture or not. If Carr can’t play, Mariota will start.

Carr wasn’t the only Las Vegas player hurt Thursday night. Wide receiver Hunter Renfrow is in the concussion protocol after taking a big hit.

Several other players have a chance to play against Miami, including rookie receiver Henry Ruggs III, who is on the NFL’s reserve/COVID-19 list and the four defensive starters who missed the Chargers game: defensive end Clelin Ferrell (shoulder), cornerback Damon Arnette (concussion), safety Johnathan Abram, (concussion) and linebacker Nicholas Morrow (concussion).