As the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints prepare to square off this Sunday at Caesars Superdome, both teams are dealing with a laundry list of injuries that could significantly shape how this Week 16 matchup plays out. With each squad sitting at the bottom of their respective conferences - the Saints at 4-10, the Jets at 3-11 - this game may not carry playoff implications, but it’s still a critical opportunity for evaluation, development, and pride. And with so many key names popping up on the injury report, there’s plenty to unpack.
Saints Injury Outlook: Kamara’s Status Looms Large
Let’s start in New Orleans, where the Saints are staring down a potentially massive void in their offensive backfield. Alvin Kamara, the heartbeat of this offense, didn’t practice due to knee and ankle issues.
That’s a red flag. Kamara’s ability to create yards after contact, catch passes out of the backfield, and serve as a safety valve for the quarterback has been one of the few consistent bright spots in an otherwise turbulent season.
If he can’t go, the Saints’ offense loses a dynamic dimension.
The backfield depth is also being tested, with rookie Devin Neal sidelined by a hamstring injury. That could leave the Saints thin at running back, potentially forcing them to lean more heavily on less proven options or tweak their game plan altogether.
Up front, the offensive line is also banged up. Asim Richards and Cesar Ruiz both missed practice with ankle injuries.
Ruiz, in particular, is a key piece on the interior line, and his absence would be felt in both the run game and pass protection. Without him, the Saints may struggle to keep pressure off the quarterback - something that’s been an issue all season.
The injury list doesn’t stop there. Wide receiver Mason Tipton missed practice due to illness, and linebacker Devaughn Veie is dealing with a shoulder injury. On the defensive side, tackle Nathan Shepherd was limited with ankle and knee issues, while safety Justin Reid was a full participant despite a knee concern - a positive sign for a secondary that’s been stretched thin at times.
Quarterback Tyler Shough, who’s been battling a hip issue, was a full participant. While he’s not expected to start, his availability gives the Saints some flexibility if they need to go deeper into the depth chart.
Jets Dealing With Quarterback Questions, Defensive Depth Issues
Over in New York, the Jets' quarterback situation continues to be a game of attrition. Justin Fields, who’s been trying to find his rhythm in this offense, was limited due to a knee issue.
Tyrod Taylor, the veteran backup, is also limited with groin and knee problems. Neither quarterback is at 100%, which could complicate things for a Jets offense that’s already struggled to find consistency through the air.
On the defensive side, the Jets are hurting. Safety Tony Adams missed practice with a groin injury, and linebacker Kiko Mauigoa is dealing with a neck issue. Both players have been key contributors, and their absence would hurt a unit that’s been asked to carry a heavy load all season.
Tight end Mason Taylor and defensive lineman Eric Watts also missed practice - Taylor with a neck injury, Watts in concussion protocol. The Jets have leaned on their tight ends in certain packages, so Taylor’s status is worth monitoring as game day approaches.
There’s some good news, though. Running back Breece Hall was a full participant despite a knee issue.
Hall is one of the few explosive weapons the Jets can rely on, and his presence gives the offense a much-needed spark. On defense, Jermaine Johnson, one of the team’s top pass rushers, was also a full participant after dealing with neck and calf injuries.
That’s a big boost to a pass rush that will look to exploit the Saints’ banged-up offensive line.
The offensive line is rounding into shape as well, with Josh Myers, Xavier Newman, and Joe Tippmann all logging full practices. That’s a rare bit of stability for a unit that’s dealt with its fair share of shuffling this season. Defensive tackle Jay Tufele also practiced in full, giving the Jets some depth on the interior of the defensive line.
What It All Means
This game may not be headlining any playoff picture discussions, but it’s a meaningful one for both franchises. For the Saints, it’s about evaluating young talent, protecting what’s left of their core, and trying to build some momentum heading into the offseason. For the Jets, it’s another chance to see if Justin Fields - health permitting - can show flashes of what made him such a promising prospect, while also testing the mettle of their defense against a Saints team that’s been inconsistent but still has playmakers.
But with so many players on both sides either sidelined or limited, depth will be tested. Coaching adjustments will be key. And whoever comes out healthier - and more prepared to adapt - could walk away with a late-season win that, while not playoff-relevant, still matters to the culture and future of the franchise.
We’ll know more as the weekend approaches, but for now, both teams are walking a thin line between evaluation and survival.