Saints punter Thomas Morstead staying in game despite broken ribs

After breaking his ribs, New Orleans Saints’ Thomas Morstead claims that it hurts when he punts, but will remain in the game.

The Divisional Round game between the New Orleans Saints and Minnesota Vikings is turning into a bloodbath quickly. The Vikings likely still aren’t over their playoff loss in 2009 when Brett Favre played under center. That’s why they’ve taken it to the Saints early and often, opening up a 17-0 lead inside of two quarters.

The way this game is going, the Saints’ most important player could end up being their punter. But after one of Thomas Morstead’s earlier kicks, he was seen holding his ribs, indicating that they were broken. He remained in the game, and claimed that it only hurts when he punts:

The only problem is, that’s kind of his entire job. And if the Vikings defense continues to play the way they have, his ribs won’t be the only body part that’s broken as his legs are going to get worn out as well. That’s why it’s up to the Saints and their offense to keep Thomas Morstead off the field as much as they can while they try and mount a comeback.

We often commend athletes for playing through injuries, but don’t acknowledge punters as people. But they are a vital part of a football team, and if Morstead is able to do his job while not functioning at 100 percent, he should receive a lot of praise afterwards. His remaining in the game should already make former punter Pat McAfee and his brand proud.

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The best way the Saints can win this game is by pretending their punter doesn’t exist. Unfortunately, Drew Brees is keeping Morstead off the field by throwing two interceptions. It seems like the Vikings’ gjallarhorn is already in the Saints’ heads.