New Orleans Saints offensive lineman Cesar Ruiz will miss his third consecutive game on Sunday due to a knee injury, and he hasn’t participated in practice during this time.
What’s happening?
Coach Dennis Allen stated on Friday that Ruiz’s knee issue is not a “structural problem,” but the team must wait for the guard’s body to heal. Allen mentioned that Ruiz is on the “proper timetable,” although he didn’t specify when the 25-year-old might return.
“It’s really more about functionality,” Allen noted. “He’s making significant progress, but he’s not there yet.”
In Ruiz’s absence, New Orleans has started Landon Young. This change is one of many along the offensive line for the Saints this season. The team is also on its fourth different starting center with Connor McGovern, while Nick Saldiveri may start again at left guard if Lucas Patrick (chest) cannot play.
McGovern stepped in for Patrick, who took over for Shane Lemieux (ankle) and Erik McCoy (groin). Lemieux has been placed on injured reserve, even though Allen initially downplayed the seriousness of his ankle issue.
“There’s a lot that goes into some of these decisions,” Allen said regarding Lemieux. “We needed enough players on the offensive line last week, so it made sense to put him on IR.”
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