Saints open Derek Carr era looking to end two-year playoff absence

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (7-10)

EXPECTATIONS: The Saints are looking to avoid missing the playoffs for a third straight season and appear confident they can contend in the NFC South following some key roster moves and the healthy return of star players who were injured much of last season. Their biggest move in free agency was to attract veteran quarterback Derek Carr, giving them a nine-year veteran with four Pro Bowl appearances under center. His top receiving playmakers should include former two-time All-Pro Michael Thomas, who missed 14 games last…