New Orleans Saints running back Kendre Miller left in the first half of the team’s Week 17 contest vs. the Las Vegas Raiders. Below are the latest updates on the condition of the Saints’ starting running back.
What Happened to Kendre Miller?
Miller was tackled for a one-yard loss with 7:28 remaining in the second quarter. He subsequently went to the blue medical tent to be evaluated for a concussion and exited for the locker room without his helmet.
The team initially declared Miller questionable to return while being evaluated for a concussion. However, he was formally declared out at halftime. After the game, interim head coach Darren Rizzi confirmed the initial concussion diagnosis, meaning that Miller will have to clear concussion protocol to play in the team’s Week 18 contest vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Per Darren Rizzi: Kendre Miller has a concussion. Marquez Valdes-Scantling is a re-aggravation of the back injury. Jaylan Ford has a lower leg injury.
— John Hendrix (@JohnJHendrix) December 29, 2024
The second-year pro had a 23-yard catch but only three rushing yards on three carries for the day. His most notable play was actually a backward pass to Spencer Rattler on a 30-yard Foster Moreau touchdown.
Rattler to Kendre to Rattler to Foster.
TOUCHDOWN‼️
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/ZZBlQVDnW5
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) December 29, 2024
Potential Fantasy Fallout From Miller’s Injury
Analysis via PFN’s Kyle Soppe
The Saints are running low on bodies, and the value of touches in this offense is limited as it is. Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the next man up, but you’re grasping for straws if you’re counting on this team in any capacity, let alone a backfield with no real direction.
Adding CEH is a defensive move, one that you make to limit your opponents paths to volume. It’s a savvy strategic move but not one that you should count on impacting your starting lineup.