PARIS, France — The New Orleans Saints have announced their game day elevations ahead of their Week 7 matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers. One more appears to indicate that the team could be leaning toward starting right guard Cesar Ruiz being unavailable or limited for the game.
On Saturday, the team announced that it will elevate offensive lineman Easton Kilty and wide receiver Cedric Tillman from the practice squad for game day. Tillman has now reached the three-elevation limit under his current practice squad contract after the Saints brought him up twice in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, Kilty’s second elevation suggests the Saints may not have Ruiz at full strength Sunday as he deals with a knee injury that has him listed as questionable.
Kilty’s previous elevation was tied to rookie right guard Jeremiah Wright having been ruled out with a concussion in the team’s Week 5 tilt with the Minnesota Vikings.
This week, Wright is available while Ruiz is the one whose participation has been in question. Ruiz did not participate in the team’s Wednesday or Thursday practices and was limited in his return to action on Friday. He left last weekend’s win over the New York Giants early with his injury.
Wright played well in his stead, and many have anticipated his first start could come this weekend in Paris, France.
Kilty’s elevation does not necessarily mean Ruiz will miss Sunday’s game. However, the Saints could limit Ruiz to an emergency role even if he is active. The move also gives New Orleans additional depth in case Ruiz cannot play or has to leave the game.
The Saints’ decision not to activate kicker Charlie Smyth suggests Daniel Carlson will be ready to play Sunday. Carlson did not arrive in Paris until Friday morning after staying home with his family as they awaited the birth of a baby who has yet to arrive.
