The New Orleans Saints are kicking off Week 2 of the preseason with some seriously tough news already hitting the squad. Offensive lineman Dillon Radunz, rocking the No. 77 jersey, and defensive tackle Bryan Bresee, No. 90, are both officially on injured reserve and out for the entire season. That’s a massive blow to both sides of the ball even before they take on the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium for their second preseason matchup.
Early Roster Shakes and Season-Ending Hits
It’s been a whirlwind since training camp began, with “numerous roster moves and jersey number changes” shaking things up across the board. Beyond Radunz and Bresee, the Saints also have offensive lineman Nick Saldiveri, No. 64, out for the season, adding to the O-line’s struggles. Wide receiver Mason Tipton, wearing No. 15, is currently on the PUP list, but there’s a chance he could return later in the year, which is at least a sliver of good news. Saints Head Coach Kellen Moore is definitely navigating some early challenges with these significant injuries.
Who’s Wearing What: Offense and Defense Snapshots
Looking at the offense, the quarterback room has some new faces with Spencer Rattler (No. 2), Zach Wilson (No. 4), Tyler Shough (No. 6), and Hunter Dekkers (No. 7 and No. 13) all listed. Running back Travis Etienne, No. 3, and Alvin Kamara, No. 41, are among the names leading the backfield. At receiver, Chris Olave, No. 12, is a familiar sight, joined by newcomers like Jordyn Tyson, No. 0, and Trey Palmer, No. 10. The tight end group is stacked with guys like Noah Fant, No. 87, and Juwan Johnson, No. 83. On defense, the secondary sees Kool-Aid McKinstry, No. 1, and Justin Reid, No. 21, holding down the fort. Linebackers Pete Werner, No. 20, and Deion Jones, No. 45, are key, while veterans like Cameron Jordan, No. 94, and Chase Young, No. 99, anchor the defensive line and edge rusher spots.
Special Teams: The Unsung Heroes
Don’t forget the specialists! Punter Ryan Wright sports No. 17, while the kicking duties are split between Charlie Smyth, No. 39, and Tanner Brown, No. 46. Long snapper Zach Wood, No. 49, rounds out the unit. These guys are crucial, especially in preseason when every point, and every yard flipped, can make a difference. The team needs them locked in as they sort through the rest of the roster.
So, the Saints are heading into their second preseason game against the Rams with some major personnel changes and injuries to deal with. This next game is all about evaluating the depth and seeing who can step up. It’s still early, but these roster updates really set the stage for how this team will look when the games start to count!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply