Saints worst-case scenario has arrived just 4 weeks into season
By Scott Rogust
New Orleans Saints quarterback Jameis Winston was not spotted for the team’s practice on Wednesday ahead of their Sunday matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in London.
The New Orleans Saints started off their season in thrilling fashion, defeating the Atlanta Falcons in a narrow comeback. However, they have dropped their next two games, losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers then the Carolina Panthers. Now, heading into a Week 4 game against the Minnesota Vikings in London, there are questions regarding the offense. Specifically, at the quarterback position.
With the team in London, quarterback Jameis Winston was not spotted at practice, and backup Andy Dalton took first-team reps.
Looks like the Saints are preparing in case they have to make a change at quarterback. Jameis Winston was not at practice today. Andy Dalton took first team reps at QB, with Taysom Hill receiving reps as a reserve QB. This is different than past weeks.
— Jeff Duncan (@JeffDuncan_) September 28, 2022
Jameis Winston non-participant in Saints practice on Wednesday
Saints head coach Dennis Allen said during a post-practice press conference that they gave Winston a day of rest on Wednesday. Allen also said that he anticipates that Winston will practice on Thursday.
Dennis Allen: Jameis was more rest, trying to make sure he's healthy. I anticipate he'll be at practice tomorrow
— John DeShazier (@JohnDeShazier) September 28, 2022
In the first week of the season, Winston threw for 269 yards and two touchdowns on a 67.6 completion percentage in the team’s 27-26 win over the Falcons. But heading into Week 2, it was revealed that Winston had four fractured vertebrae in his back, and that he would play through it.
Facing off against the Buccaneers, Winston threw for 236 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions in the 20-10 loss. Then, this past weekend against the Carolina Panthers, Winston completed 25-of-41 pass attempts for 353 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in the 22-14 loss.
Saints fans will be keeping their eyes peeled for updates on the team’s Thursday practice to see if Winston is a participant, or if Dalton will receive first-team reps again.
Aside from the quarterback question, the Saints are facing a few other question marks on their offense. Wide receivers Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry and Tre’Quan Smith all sat out for practice on Wednesday with injuries acquired during their game against the Panthers.
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