The New Orleans Saints are heading into their Week 15 rematch with the Carolina Panthers with a few key injury updates that could shape how Sunday unfolds at the Caesars Superdome. While the injury report isn’t spotless, there are some encouraging signs-especially for a defense that’s looking to bounce back and a rookie tackle trying to regain his footing.
Let’s start with a positive development on the back end of the Saints’ defense. Veteran safety Justin Reid, who’s been managing a knee issue, returned to practice in a limited capacity Thursday after sitting out earlier in the week.
That’s a good sign. If Reid can stack another day of work-limited or not-on Friday, there’s a real chance he suits up on Sunday.
His presence would be a big boost for a secondary that relies on his experience and communication, especially against a Panthers team that’s been leaning more on short and intermediate throws as their young quarterback continues to develop.
On the offensive line, rookie right tackle Taliese Fuaga remains limited with an ankle injury. While he’s not back to full speed just yet, the fact that he’s practicing at all suggests the Saints are hopeful he can be ready. Fuaga’s return would be timely-his physicality in the run game and improving pass protection are crucial for a Saints offense that’s still searching for rhythm up front.
There was also some movement on the defensive front. Backup edge rusher Chris Rumph II, who had been limited with a wrist injury, was upgraded to full participation.
That’s a solid development for the Saints’ defensive rotation, especially as they look to keep fresh legs on the edge and maintain pressure throughout four quarters. Meanwhile, veteran nose tackle Davon Godchaux had his usual rest day-nothing to worry about there, just standard maintenance for a key piece in the middle of the line.
On the flip side, there’s less optimism surrounding a couple of other names. Star running back Alvin Kamara remained sidelined with knee and ankle issues.
If he’s not back on the field Friday, it’s hard to imagine he’ll be ready to go Sunday. The same goes for backup right tackle Asim Richards, who’s still dealing with an ankle injury of his own.
Without Kamara, the Saints would need to lean more heavily on their young backs, including rookie Devin Neal, who was limited Thursday with an abdominal injury. Neal’s availability will be something to watch-he’s shown flashes, and the Saints may need every ounce of that young burst if Kamara can’t go.
As for the Panthers, it’s looking like they’ll be close to full strength. After a light walkthrough on Wednesday, Carolina had everyone practicing fully on Thursday.
That includes some key defensive contributors like cornerback Jaycee Horn and linebacker Claudin Cherelus, both of whom are working through concussion protocols. Center Cade Mays (ankle), safety Lathan Ransom (thumb), and linebacker Christian Rozeboom (hip/hamstring) were also full participants.
In short, Carolina’s trending toward being at full capacity, while New Orleans is still waiting on clarity for a few pivotal players. Friday’s final practice will tell us a lot more, but as it stands, the Saints are hoping to get a few key reinforcements back just in time for a divisional showdown they can’t afford to overlook.