The New Orleans Saints have nobody ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at the Stade de France, the first regular-season NFL game played in France. Right guard Cesar Ruiz (knee) and defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd (illness) are questionable. Linebacker Kaden Elliss and edge rusher Anfernee Jennings are set to return after missing three weeks.
Friday's injury report ahead of Sunday's matchup🇫🇷#Saints | @LaMachinery https://t.co/lrWBNtby1I
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) October 23, 2026
Ruiz and Shepherd are game-time calls
Ruiz hurt his knee late in the second quarter of last Sunday’s 34-27 win over the New York Giants. He missed the first two practices of the week and returned on a limited basis on Friday. Kellen Moore said the team would see how Ruiz responds before deciding. If he cannot go, rookie Jeremiah Wright is in line to start at right guard. On Saturday the Saints also elevated tackle Easton Kilty from the practice squad as cover for the line, and they elevated receiver Cedric Tillman as well.
Shepherd practiced fully on Wednesday and Thursday but sat out Friday. He has already missed the last two games with an illness.
Who returns
Elliss (calf) and Jennings (knee) were limited on Wednesday and Thursday, then practiced fully on Friday and carry no designation. Alvin Kamara was limited all week with a back problem but is also without a designation and is expected to play. Tyler Shough, who has a left hand injury, took part in every practice in full and will start at quarterback. Tackle Asim Richards was added to the report with a left thumb and hand injury and practiced fully in a heavy wrap.
Kicker Daniel Carlson missed the first two practices because he stayed in the United States with his wife, who is expecting the couple’s fourth child. He kicked at home on Wednesday, flew to France and was a full participant on Friday. Rain and wind are forecast, so his availability matters.
Pittsburgh’s list
The Steelers ruled out cornerback Brandin Echols (hamstring) and receiver Ben Skowronek (calf). Running back Rico Dowdle (knee) is questionable. Safety DeShon Elliott was activated from injured reserve on Saturday. Their final report was an estimate because the storm in Paris cancelled Friday’s practice.
What comes next
The Saints (2-4) and the Steelers (4-2) kick off at 9:30 a.m. EDT on Sunday, October 25, with New Orleans as the designated home team. The Saints have their bye next and then host the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, November 8. Follow the game in the Game Center and the latest designations on the injury page.
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