We’ve seen the final injury report for the New Orleans Saints’ Week 16 game against the New York Jets, and it gives us answers to some key questions. Who is inside? Who’s out? Who has a chance to play this Sunday? Let’s break it down.
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WR DeVaughn Welle (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve, ending his season. It’s a disappointing turn of events after he broke out in recent weeks. He must focus on staying healthy and starting in 2026.
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RB Alvin Kamara (Knee/Ankle) He will miss his fourth straight game after not practicing this week as he deals with several different leg injuries. Hopefully we haven’t seen the last of him in black and gold.
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RT Asim Richards (Ankle) is also out for practice this week after spraining his ankle last Sunday, an injury that will keep him out of this game.
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RG Cesar Ruiz (ankle) will also miss this game after being ruled out, meaning the Saints’ only starting offensive linemen will be left tackle Kevin Banks Jr. and right tackle Talise Fuaga.
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Three Jets players were also ruled out: linebacker Kiko Mauigoa (neck), tight end Mason Taylor (neck) and defensive lineman Eric Watts (concussion).
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DT Nathan Shepard (Ankle/Knee) Has been limited in practice all week and didn’t upgrade to full reps on Friday, which isn’t very encouraging. We’ll see if he can train before the game and get the green light.
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WR Mason Tipton He did not practice Thursday or Friday due to an unspecified illness, and he was unable to play Sunday. The Saints are very low on receivers after shutting down DeVaughn Wheeler.
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TE Zaire Mitchell Paddon (Knee) was limited Friday, so that’s something to watch. Injuries could be tricky later in the week. Mitchell Paddon has been healthy in recent weeks, but it’s still concerning when a young player is dealing with injuries.
Neither is expected to play this week, with rookie quarterback Brady Cook slated to be named the starter, but Justin Fields (knee) and Tyrod Taylor (groin/knee) are all less active.
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Justin Reed (knee) is expected to return to the starting lineup after practicing fully on Thursday and Friday. He was limited in this week’s starts and missed last Sunday’s game with a knee injury but should return soon.
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QB Tyler Shaw (Hip) Practiced fully all week after being late against the Panthers. He will start again this Sunday.
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DT Davin Godshaw (Breaking) Thursday was off when the Saints went on a third down situation and were back in the lineup on Sunday.
Six different Jets players were listed on the injury report but are expected to play Sunday: running back Bryce Hall (knee); running back Bryce Hall (knee); edge rusher Jermaine Johnson II (neck/calf); offensive linemen Josh Myers (ankle), Xavier Newman (knee) and Joe Tipman Tippmann (ankle); and defensive lineman Jay Tufele (shin).
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This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Who wins and who loses? A detailed look at the final St. Jets injury report