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The Saints head into the third battle against the Panthers relatively healthy. If you can call a team with 19 players on IR, including 8 starters healthy. The injury bug has been a two edged sword this year though. Some rookies who might not have seen extensive playing time were forced into starting mode and it’s proved to be the difference this year in my opinion.
Only two players are listed as limited in today’s Injury report, DE Trey Hendrickson and T Terron Armstead. Listed as full were TE Josh Hill, CB Justin Hardee, TE Michael Hoomanawanui (Hooman), G Senio Kelemente, and WR Michael Thomas.
Key difference in this weeks matchup is the Saints are likely to face the Panthers TE Greg Olsen.
Complete report below including the Panthers players.
CCR Update via ESPN Tight end Greg Olsen could be Panthers' X factor against Saints - After battling through a foot injury, the Panthers are hopeful their dynamic tight end can make his presence felt in Round 3 against New Orleans. https://t.co/XXEtZqZ4jh
— John White (@CatCraveRadio) January 4, 2018
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS THURSDAY INJURY REPORT PRESENTED BY OCHSNER SPORTS MEDICINE INSTITUTE
Limited Practice
DE Trey Hendrickson (ankle)
T Terron Armstead (thigh)
Full
WR Michael Thomas (hamstring)
TE Josh Hill (shoulder)
CB Justin Hardee (foot)
G Senio Kelemete (knee)
TE Michael Hoomanawanui (concussion)
CAROLINA PANTHERS INJURY REPORT
Did Not Practice
WR Devin Funchess (shoulder)
DE Julius Peppers (rest)
T Matt Kalil (illness)
Full Practice
QB Cam Newton (right shoulder)
DT Vernon Butler (shoulder)
S Kurt Coleman (ankle)
C Ryan Kalil (shoulder)
TE Greg Olsen (foot)
G Trai Turner (concussion)
S Mike Adams (rest)
DE Mario Addison (hip)
DE Wes Horton (rib)
RB Jonathan Stewart (back)
LB Shaq Thompson (foot)