New Orleans Saints veteran running back Adrian Peterson did not join Thursday’s practice after tweaking his knee Wednesday, according to James Palmer of NFL Network. The Saints are set to battle the Miami Dolphins in London on Sunday. In a separate report, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network Insider said a source familiar with the situation informed him that the veteran rusher “tweaked his knee a little in practice.” Rapoport added that the rusher’s absence was due to the knee issue and a “veteran” break at the same time. The Saints later called Peterson’s absence a “rest day.”
In their 34-13 rout of the Carolina Panthers, Peterson rushed nine times for 33 yards.
This season, he has carried the ball 23 times for a measly 77 yards, averaging 3.3 yards per carry. If he misses time, Mark Ingram will carry most of the rushing workload for the Saints while rookie Alvin Kamara will back him up as a rusher on passing downs.
Earlier, Peterson expressed disappointment over his lack of carries with the Saints. However, coach Sean Payton said he and Peterson never discussed anything about his usage before signing the veteran rusher to a two-year deal worth $7 million. Despite their disagreement regarding his role with the team, the Saints will not trade Peterson anytime soon, said Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Browns’ No. 1 pick returns to practice
Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson said that No.
1 overall pick Myles Garrett joined team practice for the first time since suffering a high-ankle sprain on Sept. 6. According to Jackson, Garrett looked like his former self during practice, adding that it’s “good to have him out there.” When asked if Garrett will play against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Jackson said it remains to be seen.
However, if he plays against the Bengals, Garrett will be on a strict snap count as the team wants to be cautious. Jackson said a potential Garrett return could serve as a jolt for the 0-3 Browns, who lacked the pass-rushing ability of their top rookie pick in their first three games. The Browns have tallied just six sacks through three games, with Christian Kirksey leading the way with 1.5.
Panthers’ star wideout expected to play vs. Patriots
Panthers head coach Ron Rivera said wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin is on track to play Sunday against the New England Patriots. Rivera said that Benjamin fully participated in Thursday’s practice, four days after he suffered a left knee injury. Against the Saints, Benjamin’s left knee got caught underneath him after he was tackled. Linebacker Thomas Davis and center Ryan Kalil didn't practice for the second consecutive day but the Panthers expect one of them to suit up against the Patriots. Davis said he would be fine after suffering a rib injury against the Saints.