NFL Week 7 Injury Report: Key Players Sidelined

The New Orleans Saints placed wide receiver and kick returner Rashid Shaheed on injured reserve following his knee surgery on Thursday. Shaheed, an All-Pro kick returner, underwent surgery in Los Angeles to address a meniscus injury, with recovery expected to take four to six months. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that the surgery involved repairing the meniscus.

Shaheed led the league in punt return average with 15.9 yards and scored on a punt return last week. His absence leaves the Saints without their two top receivers as they prepare to face the Denver Broncos, and former New Orleans coach Sean Payton. Chris Olave, the team’s second-leading receiver, is also out with a concussion.

Along with Shaheed, the Saints have faced several injuries in recent weeks. Other players on injured reserve include starting center Erik McCoy, who had groin surgery, and safety Marcus Maye, sidelined with a hamstring injury. Quarterback Derek Carr and several other starters have also missed time due to various ailments.

Other injury updates around the league include the Denver Broncos’ Patrick Surtain II, who is out with a concussion, and Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen, who missed practice with an ankle injury. The Patriots’ running back situation remains questionable, with no practice participation from their primary back due to a foot injury.

The Jaguars and Bills reported relatively healthy rosters, but the same cannot be said for the Packers, who are dealing with multiple players nursing injuries. Likewise, the Lions, Vikings, and Panthers are managing various injuries that could impact their games this week.

Notably, Davante Adams of the New York Jets returned to full practice after missing his last few games with the Las Vegas Raiders due to a hamstring issue. His teammate and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, however, did not practice due to an ankle injury.

These injury reports highlight significant challenges for teams as they strategize for Week 7 matchups. The updates will be closely monitored by teams and fans alike as game day approaches.