The New Orleans Saints‘ defensive woes deepened in their Week 5 matchup against the New York Giants. Veteran safety Justin Reid was ruled out for the remainder of the game with a concussion, as reported live by Saints beat writer Ross Jackson. This latest injury adds to an already long list of woes for the Saints’ secondary.

Ross Jackson wrote on X.

“Justin Reid is OUT for the remainder of the game with a concussion.”

Reid’s injury is a significant blow to the 0-4 team, which was already navigating an early wave of injuries. Their other safety, Julian Blackmon, went down in the opening game against the Arizona Cardinals with a season-ending shoulder injury.

The 28-year-old was limited in practice earlier this week with a knee issue. He went to the locker room in the first quarter after sustaining a hit to the head on the Giants‘ opening drive, which resulted in a touchdown. 

Following an evaluation by the medical staff, he has been placed in the league’s concussion protocol and was officially ruled out as the Giants were driving for their second score. His departure forces the Saints to rely on Jordan Howden, who will now be playing alongside rookie Jonas Sanker. 

However, all is not bad for the NFC South franchise with some key returns on the offense.

Taysom Hill and Foster Moreau provide a timely boost 

The Saints welcome back their versatile quarterback, Taysom Hill for Week 5. His return from a severe knee injury is a huge boost for the offense and offers a silver lining amid the defense’s injury crisis. But it’s not just Hill, as Tight End Foster Moreau will also return from his own knee injury, which he suffered against the Buccaneers in January. He had a great 2024, hauling in 32 catches for 413 yards and leading the team with five touchdown receptions.

Hill’s return is huge as he can be utilized as an all-purpose weapon, playing tight end, wide receiver, and even running back. Last season, he was a beast on the ground, with 39 carries for 278 yards and six rushing touchdowns in just eight starts. Add to that his 23 catches for 187 yards, and one can understand why New Orleans will see it as a welcome boost.

The big question is whether they can inject enough life and energy into the Saints’ offense. Things do not look good as of now with the Saints trailing 16-7.