Ryan Clark explains why the Titans are primed for a win against Saints. (1:09)
METAIRIE, La. METAIRIE, La. -- Sunday's New Orleans Saints offense will be even less efficient after they have ruled out Alvin Kamara (knee), and Terron Armstead left tackle (knee).
Safety C.J. was also excluded by the Saints (5-3). Gardner-Johnson (foot). Thursday's team placed Payton Turner, a rookie defensive end, on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury.
All four injuries were sustained in New Orleans' 27-25 loss to Atlanta Falcons in Week 9. Kamara is unlikely to be out for long-term, but it's not clear if he will be out any longer.
"A knee injury that [he's] rehabbing [to get back] as soon as possible," stated Saints coach Sean Payton. He also said that Kamara was feeling "soreness” towards the end of last week’s game. "There were a few plays that you could see that you could discern."
Kamara's departure is a major blow to a Saints offense that was devoid of playmakers in the wake Michael Thomas' season-ending ankle Injury and some offseason salary cap casualties. Not to mention losing Drew Brees to retirement and Jameis Winston, respectively.
With just 314.6 yards per match, the Saints are 28th in the NFL. They also rank 31st in passing yards (211.6 yards per match). Kamara has averaged 105 yards per match this season (66.25 running, 38.75 receiving), with a team-leading seven touchdowns. With 32 receptions, he is the Saints' most prolific receiver with 10 more than any other player.
The good news for the Saints is Mark Ingram, their veteran running back who they just re-acquired in a deal with the Houston Texans, who has been a reliable replacement. Ingram will play an important role in Sunday's game as both a receiver and a runner. He should also become the Saints' all time rushing leader. Ingram is only 19 yards behind Deuce MacAllister's franchise record 6,096 career rush yards.
New Orleans' quarterback, Taysom Hill, should be an integral part of the offense as both a receiver and runner. Payton announced Friday, that Trevor Siemian will become the Saints' starting quarterback for the second consecutive week. However, Hill will be part of the team's packages that also include Hill.
