Five offensive players absent from Saints Thursday practice

By Ross Jackson

After taking Christmas Day off, the New Orleans Saints (5-10) returned to the practice field on Thursday. The team is preparing for its Week 17 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders (3-12) in the season’s penultimate game.

Here is the attendance from Thursday’s portion of practice that was open to the media, per various reports:

Not Seen:

QB Derek Carr (Left Hand)

RB Alvin Kamara (Groin)

WR Bub Means (Ankle)

LG Lucas Patrick (Knee)

C Erik McCoy (Elbow)

This is effectively what was expected to begin the short week for New Orleans. Carr and Kamara are trying to work their way back before the season is through. However, those decisions would not be made on Thursday.

Patrick and McCoy are expected to miss the rest of the season, though at least Patrick is seeking a second opinion. But with only two games left, it seems unlikely that either offensive lineman will return to the lineup in time.

Means was not listed on the estimated injury report on Wednesday. While it has not been officially announced yet, interim head coach Darren Rizzi insinuated that his season may be coming to an end early as well. It is expected that he will revert to Injured Reserve after a setback with his ankle injury kept him from being able to get back to the active roster within the 21-day practice window that was opened for his return.

One name to watch when the Thursday injury report is released in the afternoon will be that of wide receiver Chris Olave. Wednesday’s estimated report listed the wideout as a full participant.