The New Orleans Saints’ fears were validated after Friday’s win over the Minnesota Vikings, with the initial belief of an Achilles injury for linebacker Kwon Alexander being ratified by further evaluations. ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reported the update on Alexander’s condition, which was confirmed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
It’s a big loss for the Saints defense. Alexander had been a transformational addition to the unit, adding much-needed experience and athleticism next to All-Pro linebacker Demario Davis. Without him, the Saints will have to go back to starting fourth-year pro Alex Anzalone with Davis. Anzalone has shown flashes before, but his mistakes this season prompted the team to trade for Alexander in the first place.
Alexander appeared in seven games for the Saints after their midseason trade with the San Francisco 49ers, totaling 27 tackles (17 solo), 4 pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a pair of fumble recoveries. He’s exactly the sort of playmaking presence the team hoped to get in trading up for Zack Baun in this year’s draft, but the rookie hasn’t gotten on the field much outside of special teams.
Additionally, NewOrleans.Football’s Nick Underhill reports that Alexander’s contract carries a $2 million injury guarantee that will trigger on April 1, 2021 if Alexander remains on the roster. The recovery time for Achilles surgery can last as much as six months, so it’s likely he’ll still be around. Regardless, the Saints were probably going to work on his contract (he’s due to count $13.4 million against the salary cap next season) anyway.
