Two Saints could soon return from IR

By Ross Jackson

METAIRIE, La. — The New Orleans Saints are getting some more reinforcements back over the next couple of weeks. The team announced they have opened the 21-day practice window for two players that are now set to work their way back from Injured Reserve.

Per the team, linebacker Nephi Sewell and offensive lineman Shane Lemieux have had their practice windows opened and now have three weeks to work their way back to the active roster. 

Sewell, the promising young linebacker, suffered an ACL tear late in the 2023 season. Head coach Dennis Allen said last week that there was a real opportunity for him to return this season. That has proven to be true with this move. 

New Orleans liked what they got from Sewell last year as the team was navigating injuries in the defensive line which sent second-level player Zack Baun into more of a pass rushing role. Because of Sewell’s growth, the Saints were comfortable shifting Baun’s role. They think very highly of the Utah product and will have a full stable of linebackers available upon his return. 

Lemieux started one game at center after starter Erik McCoy went down with an injury. But after his lone start against the Atlanta Falcons, he also ended up on Injured Reserve with an ailment of his own.

New Orleans still has a couple of other players that could be set to come off of the injured list in the coming weeks. McCoy, starting safety Will Harris Jr. and defensive lineman Tanoh Kpassagnon who has been on Injured Reserve all season thus far after an offseason Achilles injury.