The New Orleans Saints are facing some tough changes heading into their next matchup due to injuries to key players. Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed is scheduled for surgery to repair a meniscus tear, which means his season is effectively over. Recovery from this surgery typically takes four to six months, but the good news is that preserving the meniscus aids in long-term knee health. The Saints will also be without fellow wide receiver Chris Olave, who is dealing with a concussion he sustained in Week 6. With such a quick turnaround before their next game, Olave’s participation remains unlikely.
The Saints are looking at replacing these key receivers in their lineup against the Denver Broncos. Current options include Bub Means, Mason Tipton, and Cedrick Wilson. Meanwhile, the Broncos will have their own setback, as star cornerback Pat Surtain II is out following a concussion.
In other news, the Buffalo Bills made headlines by acquiring wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. His addition comes at a crucial time, but his debut against the Titans may be a challenging one due to their tough defense that has allowed the fewest yards to wide receivers this season.
Players on the Bills’ roster, James Cook will miss the upcoming game against the New York Jets due to injury. As a result, expect Ray Davis and Ty Johnson to share the workload in Cook’s absence, with Davis being the more enticing option due to his recent performance.
Moreover, as injuries piled up during Week 6, several players exited their games early due to concussions, including the Saints’ Olave and others from different teams. The list also includes Jerome Ford from the Browns and Travis Etienne Jr. from the Jaguars, both of whom were sidelined due to the infamous hamstring injury.
Shifting to potential returns, the Carolina Panthers may soon see Jonathon Brooks back in their lineup; he has been progressing well in recovery. In addition, T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings is looking at a possible return this week following ACL rehab.
The upcoming games promise to be affected by these injuries, and fantasy managers will need to keep a close eye on player availability as matchups unfold. For now, the focus remains on recovery, depth chart adjustments, and how these changes will impact team dynamics going forward.
