“Injury Struggles and Comebacks: Saints Face Key Decisions as Preseason Winds Down”
The New Orleans Saints are still dealing with a number of injuries, though some important players returned to practice on Day 15 of training camp.
Here’s a summary of who exited, returned, and other injury updates from Tuesday’s session:
WR A.T. Perry – After a standout performance in the preseason opener and a strong week of practice, the second-year receiver left Tuesday’s practice early with an apparent foot injury. Head Coach Dennis Allen mentioned it was an “ankle issue,” but did not provide details on the severity as the team is still assessing the situation. This is unfortunate timing for Perry, who has been emerging as a strong contender for the WR3 spot. Hopefully, he can return soon to continue building on his recent momentum.
RB Alvin Kamara – The veteran running back participated in walk-throughs but left practice early due to back tightness. Coach Allen downplayed the concern, calling it “not a big deal.” If Kamara is unable to play in Sunday night’s game against the San Francisco 49ers, the team might consider resting him for the rest of the preseason to ensure he’s fully ready for the start of his eighth NFL season.
CB Marshon Lattimore – The star cornerback worked on the sidelines with trainers for the first time since suffering a hip flexor injury in late July. Coach Allen has consistently said that Lattimore is “going through the rehab process,” so seeing him back on the field is a positive sign. With some time left before the Saints’ Week 1 game against the Carolina Panthers, there’s hope that Lattimore will be ready. However, the team should be cautious not to rush him back too soon.
QB Spencer Rattler – After missing Day 14 of camp with what Coach Allen described as a “thigh contusion,” the preseason standout returned to practice on Tuesday. Although he participated fully, Rattler had a rough day, though it was unclear if his performance was affected by the injury. While Jake Haener has continued to impress this offseason, Rattler is expected to handle second-half duties on Sunday, with Haener backing up Derek Carr.
LB Pete Werner – The newly extended linebacker, who injured his shoulder earlier this month, worked on the sidelines with trainers for the first time. The Saints clearly value Werner, having secured him for three more seasons. During Saturday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Willie Gay was highly active in his Saints debut. Seeing Werner back on the field, even in a limited capacity, is a positive sign as he and Gay continue to compete for the starting role alongside star linebacker Demario Davis.
LB Demario Davis – The All-Pro linebacker was able to take part in walk-throughs, though the team has been cautious with his hamstring injury from early August. Similar to Kamara, the absence of a seasoned player like Davis from preseason action is less concerning due to his experience and familiarity with the team. The Saints should prioritize Davis’s health, as the combination of Davis, Werner, and Gay could be among the league’s top linebacker trios.
LB Nephi Sewell – Although the second-year linebacker is making notable progress in his recovery from a torn ACL, Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen indicated that Sewell will not be ready for the start of the regular season. Nephi is the brother of Detroit Lions All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell.
LG Nick Saldiveri – Coach Allen expressed uncertainty about whether the second-year lineman will be able to participate in the 2024 preseason, noting that “there’s levels to soft tissue injuries,” and that Saldiveri’s case is “probably a little bit more than some.” This isn’t ideal for Saldiveri, who is in need of reps, especially as former Chicago Bears offensive lineman Lucas Patrick is solidifying his hold on the starting left guard position.
TE Juwan Johnson – After undergoing foot surgery in June, the tight end continues to work on the sidelines with trainers.
WR Rashid Shaheed, WR Bub Means, WR Equanimeous St. Brown – All three wide receivers were spotted wearing non-contact jerseys during Tuesday’s practice.
DE Tanoh Kpassagnon– According to Coach Allen, Kpassagnon, who tore his Achilles in late May, is not expected to be ready for the start of the regular season.