Injury-Hit New Orleans Saints Prepare for Crucial Game Without Key Players

As the New Orleans Saints gear up for their upcoming game, the team faces significant challenges due to injuries affecting several key players. Among the most concerning is the condition of wide receiver who has suffered a meniscus injury that could potentially see him placed on injured reserve, according to head coach Dennis Allen.

A source informed ESPN‘s Adam Schefter that the player’s surgery is scheduled for Thursday in Los Angeles. This procedure is expected to reveal whether the player will be sidelined for a few weeks or potentially for the remainder of the season. “It’s something with the meniscus,” Allen explained. “I think there’s a couple of different options, and so I think that’s what we’re trying to determine right now. There’s a chance [for injured reserve], certainly.”

The Saints will also be without their top two wide receivers for the Thursday night game against the Los Angeles Chargers, particularly poignant given the Chargers’ head coach is former Saints coach Sean Payton. Another wide receiver, currently sidelined due to a concussion, will miss this crucial game as well. Additionally, tight end is doubtful due to rib injuries. “Pain and functionality. I think he’s probably doubtful for this week, but I’m hopeful for the following week,” Allen remarked regarding the tight end’s condition.

The Denver Broncos, their upcoming opponents, will also be feeling the sting of injuries with their top cornerback ruled out because of a concussion.

Despite the setbacks, the Saints have performed notably well. The currently injured wide receiver leads the team with 349 receiving yards and three touchdown receptions, while another key wide receiver has made 23 receptions and is second on the team with 280 receiving yards.

In total, New Orleans had 17 players listed on their injury report ahead of the game. This includes starting quarterback listed as doubtful with an oblique injury, the starting center on injured reserve, a guard who missed several games due to a knee injury, and a starting linebacker who has not played in two games.

“I think injuries are a challenge any week, but especially when you’re talking about a short week when you’re trying to get guys back and ready to go,” Allen commented on the current situation.