Health has been one of the New Orleans Saints biggest enemies this season. New Orleans has been on the losing side of that battle for the majority of the season.
The injury bug doesn’t discriminate with the timing of the injuries either. The Saints have suffered injuries in game and in practice. The latter is making Dennis Allen switch their practice routine.
The most notable injuries such as Derek Carr, Erik McCoy and Chris Olave happened in live action. Pete Werner, however, missed three games with a hamstring injury he suffered in practice. Kool-Aid McKinstry is missing the Carolina Panthers this week with a hamstring injury suffered in practice, too.
The Saints have suffered 8 injuries in practice this year. Allen said they are “looking at hydration levels, a little more pre-practice stretch, activation period.”
A focus the lead up to practice is integral. Hamstrings have been one of the most common injuries. The stretches and activation period alterations are aimed to getting the body prepared for more strenuous activity. These changes were needed. What they’ve been trying wasn’t working. Hopefully it makes a positive difference.