The New Orleans Saints reported just one roster move on the daily NFL transactions wire: offensive lineman Will Clapp has been designated to return from injured reserve. He has 21 days to practice and be activated to the 53-man roster before he reverts back to the reserve list.
His return could come at a critical time for the Saints offense. They’re still down starting center Erik McCoy (calf) and will be without left tackle Terron Armstead (elbow) for some time, though Clapp’s own injury remains undisclosed.
There are other players who are also eligible to be designated for return, but so far they are still listed on injured reserve: wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith, cornerback Ken Crawley, tight end Nick Vannett, and kicker Wil Lutz. Keep an eye out for status changes for each of them.
In the meantime, the Saints have a group of guards that include Andrus Peat and Calvin Throckmorton on the active roster, with starting right guard Cesar Ruiz pulling double-duty at center. The practice squad can call up Austin Reiter, Caleb Benenoch, Derrick Kelly, and Jordan Mills if needed. Reiter has already seen two game-day elevations this season, so the Saints must sign him to the 53-man roster if they want him to dress out for another game.
Clapp, a 25-year-old LSU Tigers product and 2018 NFL draft pick, has appeared in 25 games with New Orleans (four starts). He was re-signed to a one-year deal earlier this summer after testing the waters in free agency.
