The #Saints won’t have star WR Michael Thomas (team discipline) tonight. But TE Jared Cook (groin) and DT Sheldon Rankins (thumb) — both listed as questionable — are expected to play against the #Chargers, per sources.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 12, 2020
The New Orleans Saints will have some extra help when they host the Los Angeles Chargers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Monday night. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that starting tight end Jared Cook and defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins will both be suiting up to play after being listed as questionable on the injury report.
Saturday’s report included a first-time mention of Rankins’ thumb injury, which caused him to practice on a limited basis to close out the week. Cook missed Week 4’s game with the Detroit Lions due to a groin issue. The Saints tight ends combined for just one catch (a 7-yard gain by Josh Hill) in his absence against a weak Lions defense, so getting Cook back versus a stronger Chargers unit should be helpful.
However, the Saints will not be playing alongside wide receiver Michael Thomas. Thomas was expected to return from his Week 1 ankle injury, but he’s been suspended for Week 5’s game after fighting with safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson during practice over the weekend. He had been officially questionable to play but was trending towards a return from injury.
Other Saints players who are questionable for Monday night with injuries: defensive end Marcus Davenport (elbow, toe), cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring), and left guard Andrus Peat (ankle). Check back often for updates on their status.
