Saints place linebacker Alex Anzalone on IR

It was revealed Monday afternoon that the Saints have placed starting middle linebacker on injured reserve. Field Yates broke the news.

Anzalone missed time during the preseason but was ready to go week one against the Houston Texans. No specifics about what type of injury this is has been released. At this time it’s unsure if it is a new injury or the one that he was bothered by prior to the start of the season.

He has a history of shoulder injuries that saw him slide in the 2017 draft to the third round, even though he was considered one of the top linebacker prospects in that class. His rookie year was also cut short due to shoulder issues.

The recently acquired Kiko Alonso who was traded from the Miami Dolphins will see more playing time now the Anzalone has gone down. The trade makes more sense now, as perhaps the team had concerns about Anzalone’s long term health.

The Saints could still bring the linebacker back later in the season after 8 weeks.

Also of note is DE Carl Granderson’s exemption has expired and he is now counted on the 53.