The New Orleans Saints placed starting right tackle Ryan Ramczyk on injured reserve, very likely ending his season. There are just two games left in the regular season so the only way Ramczyk could get back on the field is if the Saints win those last two matchups as well as a couple of playoff games. That’s easier said than done, especially without him in the lineup.
This is a tough loss, even if fans haven’t seen Ramczyk play up to his usual standards before missing the last two games because of this injury. But it seemed to be coming after Ramczyk recently opened up to reporters about the seriousness of his injury. He has a degenerative knee condition that’s resulted in cartilage loss which may leave him with lifelong problems in the joint. He’ll explore all of his options in the offseason, including surgery and, potentially, an early retirement.
In the meantime, look for the Saints to continue to start Landon Young at the right tackle spot. The former Kentucky left tackle has learned to play on the right side with New Orleans over the last few years and has been a serviceable backup in recent weeks, with Cameron Erving backing him up from the practice squad. But if this is it for Ramczyk, the Saints may need to look into a long-term solution at right tackle.
