The New Orleans Saints are struggling with a slew of ailments heading into Week 4 against the Atlanta Falcons. Their injury list is long, and they’ve lost one of their greatest offensive players for the foreseeable future.
Saints add OL Shane Lemieux to active roster.
This trade coincides with Pro Bowl centre Erik McCoy’s injured reserve trip. New Orleans also added inside offensive lineman Chris Reed to their practice squad.
Lemieux is an option for starting on the inside. He could play centre this week while McCoy is out. Lucas Patrick is another potential starter, but he has primarily played guard this season.
When Patrick went to centre, Oli Udoh took his place as guard. He might start if Patrick gets the nod at centre as well.
However, the Saints’ activeness in adjusting the roster may indicate a wish to maintain him as a backup. Nick Saldiveri may also play a role in the future. He was active during Week 3.
Regarding Cesar Ruiz. He didn’t practice on Wednesday. The Saints guard could miss the Falcons game. If he does, New Orleans will field a completely different offensive line in 2023.
Ryan Ramczyk will not participate this season due to a knee injury. Trevor Penning will start at tackle opposite Taliese Fuaga, a rookie.
Regardless, Lemieux is a depth player who could be pressed into a larger role as injuries increase for the black and gold.
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