The New Orleans Saints released their first injury report of Week 2, and several key names are in question for Sunday’s matchup with the San Francisco 49ers. Both teams are dealing with significant concerns, with the spotlight shining on the quarterback position in San Francisco.
Saints Still Waiting on Chase Young
Defensive end Chase Young missed practice again on Wednesday as he continues to recover from a calf injury. Young sat out the season opener, and his absence lingers as the Saints prepare for one of the NFL’s most physical teams.
Safety Julian Blackmon was ruled out with a shoulder injury that will require extended recovery time. That loss leaves New Orleans thin in the secondary. On the offensive line, Trevor Penning (toe) and rookie Taliese Fuaga (knee) were also sidelined Wednesday, raising more questions about protection for Spencer Rattler.
There was at least some positive news. Safety Jordan Howden returned as a full participant, while wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (knee) and long snapper Zach Wood (elbow) both managed limited work.
49ers Facing Major Questions at Quarterback
The 49ers have their own issues. Starter Brock Purdy injured his toe and shoulder in Week 1 and did not practice on Wednesday. Head coach Kyle Shanahan admitted Purdy is a “long shot” to play against New Orleans. If Purdy can’t go, veteran Mac Jones will likely start under center.
San Francisco is also navigating depth issues at receiver and tight end. The uncertainty could change how the Saints’ defense approaches Sunday, especially with George Kittle already sidelined.
What It Means for New Orleans
The Saints enter this game knowing their defensive front may not be at full strength. Without Young, New Orleans loses a proven pass rusher against one of the league’s top rushing teams. Missing Blackmon compounds the challenge in coverage if the 49ers lean on their passing game.
Still, the possibility of facing Jones instead of Purdy shifts the outlook. San Francisco’s offense loses mobility and explosiveness with Purdy out. That creates an opportunity for the Saints’ defense to be more aggressive and force mistakes.
On offense, the Saints must keep Rattler upright despite questions on the line. Any improvement in health for Penning or Fuaga would be a welcome boost.
Saints vs. 49ers Injury Report — Week 2
| Team | Player | Position | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saints | Chase Young | DE | Calf | Questionable |
| Saints | Julian Blackmon | S | Shoulder (labrum) | Out |
| Saints | Trevor Penning | OL | Toe | Questionable |
| Saints | Taliese Fuaga | OL | Knee | Questionable |
| Saints | Velus Jones Jr. | WR | Knee | Limited |
| Saints | Zach Wood | LS | Elbow | Limited |
| Saints | Jordan Howden | S | Oblique | Full |
| 49ers | Brock Purdy | QB | Toe/Shoulder | Long shot |
| 49ers | Mac Jones | QB | — | Probable if Purdy out |
| 49ers | George Kittle | TE | Injury | Out |
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