Before the New Orleans Saints and Minnesota Vikings square off in Sunday’s Week 5 bout in the Big Easy at noon, there are some key injury updates to watch going into the matchup.
While some big names for the Vikings will be gametime decisions, the New Orleans offense appears ready to go with a healthy active roster (sans players on Injured Reserve) and the defense is set to return some of its young depth.
Here’s a look at who’s in, who’s out and who’s still to be decided for Sunday’s game.
New Orleans Saints
RB Alvin Kamara – In
As was indicated by the team not elevating running back Zamir White from the practice squad on Saturday, Saints running back Alvin Kamara is expected to be good to go against the Vikings.
With starting back Travis Etienne Jr. still sidelined, Kamara will carry the bulk of the run game’s workload with fellow rushers Kendre Miller and C.J. Donaldson.
LB Jaylan Ford – In
One of two defenders to return from injured reserve immediately when eligible, linebacker Jaylan Ford’s debut is serendipitous. He’ll be able to contribute and help out consistently on special teams, but will also provide depth to a short-handed linebacker room that won’t have starter Kaden Elliss for a second consecutive week.
Linebackers Pete Werner and Danny Stutsman are in good health, but Ford provides another depth option to help them stay that way while also being able to step in if needed.
S Lorenzo Styles Jr. – In
The rookie safety provides depth at a number of positions in his return. Lorenzo Styles Jr. is another player debuting off of Injured Reserve. Like Ford, he’ll immediately have a role on special teams as a coverage player but could see some opportunities as a returner as well with his 4.27 40-yard dash speed.
He also can backup both safety positions, cornerback and the STAR role with the last likely being his most prominent.
Minnesota Vikings
WR Justin Jefferson – Questionable
One of two true game-time decisions for the Vikings, Louisiana native and former LSU Tigers wideout Justin Jefferson has made his desire to play Sunday very well known. At this point, it’s widely expected that he will find his way on to the field, but his on-field workout before the game will be the deciding factor.
WR Jordan Addison – Questionable
Just like Jefferson, wide receiver Jordan Addison will be a game-time decision as he looks to return from a hamstring injury.
The Vikings signed veteran wideout Odell Beckham Jr. to their practice squad and elevated him for the game. If Addison or Jefferson can’t go, expect Beckham to be dressed and ready to step in to take on his former hometown team.
OL Christian Darrisaw – Out
This creates a stellar opportunity for Saints star edge rusher Chase Young. The Vikings’ starting left tackle, Christian Darrisaw is out with a concussion. He has allowed among the lowest pressure rates among NFL left tackles so far this year, but without him, the Vikings will rely on journeyman Ryan Van Demark, who has allowed among the highest pressure percentage at the position since being called upon.
Minnesota’s offensive line will also have a backup at left guard while starting right tackle Brain O’Neill is questionable. This must be a game in which the Saints pass rush takes advantage of the lineup across from them to provide consistent pressure on quarterback Kyler Murray.
