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Saints' frustrating loss gets even worse after latest injury update for two key players on offense
Aug 17, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) hands off to running back Kendre Miller (5) against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Injuries have actually avoided many key players for the New Orleans Saints so far this season, but the NFL always has a way of humbling you in that department. For New Orleans, a loss in Week 7 to the Chicago Bears came at a price that Kellen Moore probably won't be thrilled about when it comes to his starting lineup on offense, as well as its depth.

Running back Kendre Miller and center Erik McCoy are dealing with injuries.

Potential concern for Kendre Miller and Erik McCoy

The injuries to Miller and McCoy may not bear a ton of good news for the Saints. Rather, Nick Underhill noted that there is "concern" for both of their injury situations as of now. Both players left the game against Chicago and did not return.

"Saints C Erik McCoy had his elbow in a sling wrapped in ice postgame. RB Kendre Miller sounded hopeful about his knee issue but didn’t want to get into any specific injury talk." -- Mike Triplett

This is an issue for multiple reasons. If Miller misses time, it increases the workload for Alvin Kamara, who had to shoulder a massive workload a season ago. As a veteran player, it would be great to keep giving him some breaks with Miller mixed in as often as he has been early on this season.

The loss of McCoy would be an even bigger loss, though. The interior offensive line has been the weakest part of the Saints offense as a whole throughout Kellen Moore's first campaign, but McCoy has been the best player there. Trevor Penning has shown improvement, but he missed the start of the year due to injury.

Spencer Rattler plays much better when he is on time and able to trust that he will get said time to maneuver his reads and throw without pressure in his face. As of now, the Saints have no proven backup center on the roster who would be able to step in for McCoy, even if he did miss a short span. With a potential long-term injury looming, that situation seems like a possible back-breaker for the passing offense in New Orleans.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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