The Saints suffered a huge blow today as star fullback Heath Evans was placed on the injured reserve, ending his 2009 campaign with the Saints. Evans was a catalyst for the Saints’ running game and a big reason behind their rushing average exceeding an impressive 4.6 yards per carry. Evans had also found the end zone three times in the Saints’ six games. This one hurts badly, arguably as bad as All Pro left tackle Jammal Brown being gone for the year. To replace him Kyle Eckel has joined the team. Eckel is known as a decent lead blocker and tough inside runner, but he doesn’t have anywhere near the pass receiving skills Evans demonstrated. Major bummer.
As for Sedrick Ellis and Scott Fujita, both are still out and not practicing. It’s safe to assume both Anthony Hargrove and Troy Evans will take their respective places in their starting lineup Monday Night. Ellis is suffering from a knee injury similar to what both Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell had earlier this year, so he could miss a couple weeks. The Saints have been tight lipped on Fujita, who is dealing with a calf ailment.
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