The New Orleans Saints and Las Vegas Raiders will square off at 3:25 p.m. CT for their Week 3 game in New Orleans, the Saints’ home opener.
As the teams take the field, the Saints will be down an important member on their offensive line while the Raiders will see the debut of one of their most productive offensive weapons.
Here are the injury updates that can change the game for the Saints and Raiders.
New Orleans Saints
LT Kelvin Banks Jr. – Out
Added to injured reserve late in the week, offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. underwent surgery following a severe high-ankle sprain that he suffered in Week 2.
The door is open for Banks to return later this season, but until then, offensive lineman Asim Richards is expected to take the reins at left tackle. He’ll be the player tasked with protecting quarterback Tyler Shough’s blindside.
RB Travis Etienne Jr. – In
Despite having to manage a hamstring injury throughout the week, Saints running back Travis Etienne Jr. is good to go for the weekend.
The Saints’ run game has been underwhelming so far this season, and the Raiders won’t make it easy to improve. But having Etienne available is better than him being out with injury. If the Saints are going to get their run game on track, it’s more likely to happen with Etienne as the primary ball carrier.
WR Barion Brown – Out
While the rookie hasn’t seen much action on offense, wideout Barion Brown has been the Saints’ primary return specialist.
His 53-yard kick return last week put New Orleans in position for a late field goal at the end of the field half to help ignite some momentum for the team.
With him out, cornerback Jayden Price is expected to see most of the work at punt returner while splitting duties on kick return.
Las Vegas Raiders
TE Brock Bowers – In
Although he did not participate in the final day of practice, the expectation is that the Raiders’ explosive tight end Brock Bowers will be available for their matchup against the Saints.
The top tight end creates a challenging mismatch for the Saints’ defense, but how involved he will truly be is still uncertain.
S Treydan Stukes – Out
The Raiders’ rookie safety has been a revelation for the passing game. Safety Treydan Stukes, drafted in the second round, is a disruptive and playmaking defensive back.
Not having him on the field Sunday could open up some downfield opportunities for Shough and his pass catchers.
