The New Orleans Saints have taken a significant blow as star wide receiver Rashid Shaheed has officially been placed on injured reserve (IR). Shaheed, who has been a key playmaker for quarterback Derek Carr, is now sidelined for at least the next four games after suffering a knee injury during the Saints’ Week 6 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The injury, a meniscus tear, could potentially sideline Shaheed for the remainder of the 2024 season, depending on the severity and type of surgical repair. While a full meniscus repair would likely shut him down for the year, there’s hope that a less invasive procedure could allow Shaheed to return in time for a late-season run. The earliest possible return would be Week 11, when the Saints face the Cleveland Browns, but that’s contingent on his recovery progressing quickly.
Through six games this season, Shaheed has been one of the most productive weapons on the Saints’ offense, amassing 349 receiving yards and three touchdowns. His deep-threat ability has made him Derek Carr’s go-to target, and his absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the offense. Unfortunately, Shaheed’s injury is just one of several significant issues New Orleans is dealing with. Carr is also out with an oblique injury, while fellow wide receiver Chris Olave is currently sidelined due to a concussion.
Update: Doctors wound repairing the meniscus in Saints’ WR Rashid Shaheed’s knee today and he now faces a four-to-six month recovery, per source. Shaheed was placed on injured reserve and his season is over. pic.twitter.com/tyz8RSdZgB
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 17, 2024
Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler has been thrust into the starting role, but without both Shaheed and Olave, he faces an uphill battle trying to lead the Saints’ offense. As it stands, the Saints are 2-4 on the season and struggling to keep pace in the competitive NFC South, where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons are both tied for first place at 4-2.
New Orleans’ next three matchups could be crucial to their playoff hopes. They face the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, and division rival Carolina Panthers. While the game against the Panthers appears winnable, overcoming the Broncos and Chargers will be a tall order, especially with a depleted offense.
The Saints will need to find production from their remaining receivers and hope their defense can carry them through this tough stretch. If they can stay in the playoff hunt and secure a few wins, Shaheed’s potential return later in the season could provide a much-needed boost. However, with multiple key injuries, New Orleans faces a difficult road ahead as they try to stay afloat in the NFC playoff race.
