Injured DB returns to Saints practice Wednesday

By Ross Jackson

METAIRIE, La. – No surprises in terms of player absences for the New Orleans Saints on Wednesday based on the injuries seen during last Week’s loss. But the big surprise was the absence of defensive line coach Todd Grantham. As the media walked into the indoor facility, the defensive line was working with just one coach: Pass Rush Specialist Brian Young.

Grantham could just be sick, or out for a personal reason. But when the media speaks with Interim Head Coach Darren Rizzi, more clarity will be made available. Until then, here is the attendance from the portion of Wednesday’s practice open to the media:

Not seen:

WR Cedrick Wilson Jr.

WR Chris Olave

CB Kool-Aid McKinstry

C/G Lucas Patrick

DL Coach Todd Grantham

Returned:

S Will Harris Jr.

New:

RB X. Valladay – No. 34

DL R. Anderson – No. 57

DL T. Jeffcoat – No. 59

The newest piece of info as well comes from the activation of the 21-day practice window for Harris Jr. He now has three weeks to work his way back to the active roster. He looked to be moving smoothly and comfortably throughout the open portion. The Saints’ announced the move prior to practice.

Wilson, Olave and Patrick all suffered injuries during Sunday’s loss to the Carolina Panthers. Olave may be a candidate for Injured Reserve after suffering his second concussion of the season.

McKinstry missed last week’s matchup with a hamstring injury. Ideally for the Saints, he will be back sooner rather than later. But until then, all eyes will be on last week’s starters Alontae Taylor and Shemar Jean-Charles.