As the New Orleans Saints gear up for the crucial Week 18 clash against the Atlanta Falcons, several key developments have emerged from the team’s camp. The Saints are strategically navigating their financial and player management to ensure a strong finish to the 2023 NFL season and a robust setup for 2024.
Salary Cap and Marshon Lattimore’s Contract Restructure
The Saints have started addressing their 2024 salary cap issues by reworking the contract of star cornerbackMarshon Lattimore. This move is not just a financial adjustment but also a clear indication of Lattimore’s value to the team, despite his recent struggles with injuries. The restructure, which converts a significant portion of his base salary into a signing bonus, provides the Saints with over $11 million in cap relief for the next season.
Injury Report and Playoff Scenarios
Ahead of the vital game against the Falcons, the Saints have disclosed an extensive injury report. Key players such asAlvin Kamaraand Chris Olave are listed, with their participation status crucial for the team’s playoff aspirations.
New Orleans Saints Injury Report
Position
Name
Injury
Wednesday
TE
Juwan Johnson
Chest
DNP
S
Lonnie Johnson
Knee
DNP
RB
Alvin Kamara
Ankle
DNP
LB
Nephi Sewell
Knee
DNP
T
Landon Young
Knee
DNP
DT
Khalen Saunders
Concussion
DNP
RB
Kendre Miller
Ankle
LP
TE
Jimmy Graham
NIR-Rest
LP
C
Erik McCoy
Foot
LP
WR
Chris Olave
Ankle
LP
DE
Payton Turner*
Toe
LP
* Currently on Reserve/Injured. Returned to practice.
Atlanta Falcons Injury Report
Position
Name
Injury
Wednesday
DE
Calais Campbell
Rest
DNP
C
Drew Dalman
Ankle
DNP
S
DeMarcco Hellams
Concussion
DNP
CB
Mike Hughes
Concussion
DNP
RB
Cordarrelle Patterson
Rest
DNP
LB
Troy Anderson
Pectoral
LP
DE
Zach Harrison
Knee
LP
QB
Taylor Heinicke
Ankle
LP
The Saints can clinch the NFC South with a win over the Falcons, combined with a Tampa Bay loss or tie against Carolina. Additionally, a wild-card spot is within reach if the Saints win and both Seattle and Green Bay fail to secure victories in their respective matches.
Roster Moves
General Manager Mickey Loomis announced several roster changes, including the addition of guard Colby Gossett to the practice squad. These moves reflect the team’s ongoing efforts to bolster its lineup as they push for a postseason berth.
With strategic financial management, careful handling of player injuries, and astute roster decisions, the New Orleans Saints are positioning themselves for a strong finish to the 2023 season and a promising start to the next. The game against the Falcons will be a decisive moment in their pursuit of playoff glory.
