Saints QB Derek Carr leaves game vs. Lions after taking big hit

New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr left Sunday's 33-28 loss to the Detroit Lions and did not return after being tackled to the ground by linebacker Bruce Irvin early in the fourth quarter.

Irvin drove Carr into the ground on the tackle and incurred a roughing-the-passer penalty for the play.

Carr was evaluated by two trainers before leaving the field with more than 10 minutes left as the Saints trailed 33-21.

He was listed as doubtful to return with shoulder and back injuries while also having to go through the concussion protocol. Carr finished with 226 yards, one touchdown and one interception on 17-of-22 passing.

Saints running back Alvin Kamara scored on a 1-yard touchdown run to finish the drive, with Jameis Winston replacing Carr at quarterback.

Carr signed a four-year, $150 million contract with the Saints in March with $60 million guaranteed at signing and $100 million guaranteed.

With the loss dropping them to 5-7, the Saints fell a game behind the Atlanta Falcons – who beat the New York Jets 13-8 on Sunday – for the lead in the NFC South.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Derek Carr injury: Saints QB leaves game after taking big hit