Derek Carr is set to return.
However, the New Orleans Saints will still face challenges at another key position on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers.
The Saints have ruled out cornerbacks Marshon Lattimore and Kool-Aid McKinstry due to hamstring injuries, and cornerback Rico Payton is listed as questionable with a back issue—leaving Alontae Taylor as the only healthy cornerback on the roster.
Taylor is expected to start outside, while safety Ugo Amadi will likely shift to the nickel position, which is normally Taylor’s role. For the corner position opposite Taylor, the Saints may turn to either Shemar Jean-Charles or Tre Herndon, both of whom are on the practice squad.
Coach Allen has not specified how long Lattimore or McKinstry might be sidelined. Lattimore aggravated an existing hamstring issue during last week’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, and McKinstry sustained his injury in practice. Additionally, former starter Paulson Adebo is out for the season with a broken femur.
Beyond Lattimore and McKinstry, running back Kendre Miller (hamstring) and wide receiver Bub Means (ankle) are also unavailable for the Saints.
Running back Jaamal Williams (groin) is listed as doubtful, while wide receiver Cedrick Wilson (hip), defensive tackle John Ridgeway (oblique), center Shane Lemieux (ankle), and linebacker Nephi Sewell (knee) are all questionable. If either Lemieux or Sewell plays, they would need to be activated from injured reserve, requiring a corresponding roster move.
On a positive note, Carr will make his return on Sunday after missing three games due to an oblique injury.
