Go ahead and file this one under “Unfortunate Headlines,” but it’s true: the New Orleans Saints’ initial Week 8 injury report isn’t as bad as it looks. The Saints listed a dozen players on Wednesday’s injury report after practice, but just one of them wasn’t able to practice due to injury (offensive lineman James Hurst, who hurt his ankle two games ago). They should have plenty of hands on deck for Sunday’s game with the Indianapolis Colts.
Running back Alvin Kamara was the only other non-participant, but he was held out due to an illness and should return later this week. Players who had been sidelined at practice for weeks like tight end Juwan Johnson (calf), safety J.T. Gray (hamstring), and offensive tackle Landon Young (hip) all worked on a limited basis.
Veterans including right tackle Ryan Ramczyk (concussion), safeties Tyrann Mathieu (foot) and Marcus Maye (hamstring), quarterback Taysom Hill (chest) plus tight end Jimmy Graham (who as a given his typical Wednesday rest day) were all limited, too. Rookie running back Kendre Miller (shoulder) received treatment but practiced fully.
All told the week’s first injury report could be much worse. We’ll watch it closely in the days ahead to see who is cleared for more reps. See for yourself: