New Orleans Saints place Jonathan Vilma on injured reserve, designated to return list

November 11, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Jonathan Vilma (51) against the Atlanta Falcons prior to kickoff of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
November 11, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Jonathan Vilma (51) against the Atlanta Falcons prior to kickoff of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Saints have placed linebacker Jonathan Vilma on injured reserve  designated to return list. That means Vilma isn’t eligible to return until week 9 of the regular season agains the New York Jets, his former team. Vilma had a knee scope in mid-August and is recovering still.

It might not be that big of a loss for the Saints, who already have a depleted defense. His role in the defense has been diminished in defensive coordinator Rob Ryan’s new scheme.

When he returns he could play a part-time role. That means that David Hawthorne will most likely start next to Curtis Lofton opening weekend. The weakened linebacker group could force the Saints to outscore teams in shootouts this season.

That comes two days after this report.