Saints' Rashid Shaheed Out for the Season with Knee Injury

The Saints officially placed wide receiver and kick returner Rashid Shaheed on injured reserve following knee surgery, effectively ending his season. The procedure, performed in Los Angeles, revealed a meniscus injury that required repair. His recovery is expected to take four to six months. Shaheed’s absence will be felt deeply, as he was a key contributor both on offense and special teams.

Shaheed had quickly established himself as one of the Saints' most dangerous weapons alongside Chris Olave. Known for his deep-threat ability, Shaheed and Derek Carr connected on several big plays, including a 70-yard catch in Week 2 and a 59-yarder in the season opener. Unfortunately, without him, the Saints' offense is left with a massive void, particularly in a season where they've struggled to maintain the explosive spark seen early on. Over the past three weeks, the Saints' offense has mustered just 10, 27, and 13 points, far from their two 40+ point performances to open the year.

With both Shaheed and Olave sidelined, Alvin Kamara will need to take on an even larger role in the offense. The Saints, currently sitting third in the division, could see things get worse as they face tough competition from the Falcons and Buccaneers, who both look strong. The upcoming weeks will be critical for the Saints to determine how they proceed at key positions, both on and off the field.