New Orleans, December 31, 2025
News Summary
The New Orleans Saints are dealing with significant injuries as they prepare for their Week 18 game against the Atlanta Falcons, with 13 players on the injury report. The Falcons are facing their own injury challenges, including key players Drake London and Kyle Pitts. This rivalry game is crucial for both teams as they aim to finish their seasons on a strong note despite these setbacks.
New Orleans – The New Orleans Saints are grappling with significant injury challenges as they prepare for their Week 18 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Thirteen players were listed in the Saints’ Injury Report dated Wednesday, and they are scheduled to face the Falcons on Sunday, January 4, at 1 p.m. ET, in a crucial game for both teams.
The Saints’ recent injury struggles have been consistent throughout the season. In Week 17, they reported 11 players on the Injury Report across three consecutive days leading up to their game against the Titans. Notably, three players were ruled out, and three were listed as questionable on the Friday Injury Report for Week 16 against the Jets. This trend of injuries has left the coaching staff and fans anxious as they look forward to the upcoming game.
As for the Atlanta Falcons (7-9), they conducted a walk-through on Wednesday, indicating their readiness for Sunday’s contest. Their estimated injury report reflects concerns as well, with key players facing their own physical challenges. Wide receiver Drake London is dealing with a PCL strain, while tight end Kyle Pitts is managing a knee injury. Both players have been active in their previous games, with London playing two consecutive games and Pitts not missing any games throughout the season.
The Falcons will also miss cornerback Mike Hughes, who has been ruled out due to an ankle injury for the third straight game. Additionally, defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus will not participate due to a hamstring injury sustained in Week 17. The Falcons have had their fair share of injury woes as they prepare for this rivalry matchup.
Diving deeper into the injury history for the Saints, they faced substantial setbacks in previous weeks, starting back in Week 15 against the Panthers, where two players were listed as out and one as questionable. They continued to experience similar injury counts in Weeks 16 and 17, showcasing a trend that may impact their performance and strategies during the forthcoming game against the Falcons.
Both teams will be looking to secure a victory as they conclude their seasons. The Saints will need to strategize effectively, leveraging their assets while overcoming injury obstacles. Meanwhile, the Falcons hope to exploit any weaknesses presented by the Saints’ injury list. This matchup is anticipated to be intense as both teams aim to finish the season on a high note.
Injury Reports Recap:
- Wednesday: 13 Saints players listed; Falcons conducted walk-through.
- Friday (Week 17): 11 players reported for Saints vs. Titans.
- Friday (Week 16): 3 players out, 3 questionable for Saints vs. Jets.
- Falcons: Drake London (PCL strain), Kyle Pitts (knee injury) limited; Hughes and Dorlus out.
Background Context:
The injury challenges faced by both the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons could play a significant role in determining the outcome of their Week 18 match. It’s crucial for both coaching staff to make swift decisions in response to these injuries, as they finalize their game strategies.
FAQ
How many players were listed on the Saints’ injury report for Week 18?
Thirteen players were listed on Wednesday’s Injury Report for Week 18.
When will the Saints play against the Falcons?
The Saints will face the Atlanta Falcons in a game scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 4, at 1 p.m. ET.
What injuries are the Atlanta Falcons dealing with?
Wide receiver Drake London is dealing with a PCL strain, and tight end Kyle Pitts is battling a knee injury.
Which Falcons players are ruled out for the game against the Saints?
Cornerback Mike Hughes is ruled out due to an ankle injury, and defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus is out due to a hamstring injury.
Injury Report Summary
| Week | Saints Players Listed | Key Falcons Injuries |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | 13 | Drake London (PCL strain), Kyle Pitts (knee) |
| 17 | 11 | N/A |
| 16 | 11 | N/A |
| 15 | 7 | N/A |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Brandon Dorlus to Miss Time with Hamstring Injury
Atlanta Falcons Hold First Week 17 Practice Following Christmas Break
Additional Resources
- New Orleans Saints Official Site
- Fox Sports: Falcons vs Saints Injury Report
- The Falcons Wire: Falcons vs Saints Week 18
- Canal Street Chronicles: Saints vs Titans Game Day Inactives
- Tennessean: Titans Injury Updates New Orleans Saints
- Wikipedia: New Orleans Saints
- Google Search: New Orleans Saints injury report
- Google Scholar: New Orleans Saints injuries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Orleans Saints
- Google News: New Orleans Saints
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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