New Orleans Saints Lose Two Key Pieces Following Week 7 Loss

Coming off another disappointing loss to the Chicago Bears, the Saints received news that would make any fan’s stomach drop faster than an interception. Two pivotal players—Running Back Kendre Miller and starting Center Erik McCoy—suffered season-ending injuries that have essentially put the final nail in an already troubled campaign.

Miller, who was finally starting to find his groove in the NFL, tore his ACL during Sunday’s contest. The third-round pick from TCU had been carving out a meaningful role in the Saints backfield, rushing for 193 yards and a touchdown through seven games. For a guy who spent his first two seasons battling injuries and never quite clicking with former Head Coach Dennis Allen, this felt like his breakthrough moment. Instead, it became another cruel reminder that the Saints can’t catch a break this season.

But wait, there’s more (and not in a good way). McCoy, the anchor of New Orleans’ offensive line, suffered a torn biceps that will require surgery and end his season. The Pro Bowl center had been the one bright spot on an offensive line that was already dealing with plenty of question marks.

Why These Losses Hurt More Than Your Average Injury

Let’s be real here—losing any starter is tough, but these particular injuries sting for reasons that go beyond just the depth chart. McCoy wasn’t just another lineman; he was the guy protecting Spencer Rattler’s blind side and opening up running lanes for what was supposed to be a rejuvenated ground game. His 82.7 pass-blocking grade ranked first among all centers this season, according to Pro Football Focus. That is not exactly the kind of production you can replace with a backup.

For Miller, this injury represents more than just a lost season—it is a career trajectory that keeps getting derailed. The kid from TCU was supposed to be the Saints’ future at running back, especially with all the trade rumors swirling around Alvin Kamara. Instead of proving he could handle an expanded role, Miller is now facing another long rehab process and the uncertainty that comes with it.

The Ripple Effect On Spencer Rattler’s Development

Here’s where things get particularly frustrating for Saints fans who were starting to believe in Rattler’s potential. The young quarterback was showing flashes of competence, giving fans hope that maybe they had found their franchise signal-caller without having to mortgage the future in the draft.

Now? Rattler is going to be running for his life behind a makeshift offensive line while handcuffed by a running game that just lost one of its key contributors. It’s like trying to teach someone to drive in the middle of a demolition derby. Sure, it’s possible, but you’re not exactly setting them up for success.

Saints Fans Deserve Better Than This Comedy Of Errors

Look, we’ve all seen bad seasons before. Injuries happen, players underperform, and sometimes the football gods just aren’t on your side. But what’s happening in New Orleans feels like something more sinister—a perfect storm of poor decisions, bad luck, and timing that would make Murphy’s Law blush.

The Saints were supposed to be competitive this season. They brought in some new faces, had high hopes for their young quarterback, and believed they could make some noise in what looked like a wide-open NFC South. Instead, they’re staring down the barrel of what could be one of the most disappointing seasons in franchise history.

What’s Next?

The harsh reality is that these injuries might actually provide some clarity for a franchise that’s been stuck in neutral. With McCoy and Miller sidelined, the Saints can truly evaluate what they have in their depth players and make more informed decisions about their future roster construction.

For Rattler, this becomes the ultimate trial by fire. If he can somehow navigate this disaster and show continued improvement despite the chaos around him, it would speak volumes about his character and potential. If he struggles under the increased pressure, well, at least the Saints will likely have a high draft pick to work with next spring.

The Saints host Tampa Bay this Sunday in what could be one of their last realistic chances at a division win this season. After that, the schedule doesn’t get any friendlier with matchups against teams that are actually trying to win football games.

The Bottom Line

Sometimes you have to laugh to keep from crying, and Saints fans are getting plenty of practice at both this season. These injuries to Miller and McCoy represent more than just unfortunate timing—they’re the latest chapter in what’s becoming a masterclass in how not to build a contending football team.

But here’s the thing about Saints fans: they’ve been through worse. They’ve endured bounty scandals, playoff heartbreak, and decades of mediocrity. They’ll get through this too, probably with a drink in hand and a prayer on their lips.

The question isn’t whether the Saints can survive this season—it’s whether they can learn from it and build something better for the future. Right now, that feels like the only hope worth clinging to in what’s become a lost year in the “Big Easy.”