Estimé Injured, Saints Promote Donaldson for Lions Game

The New Orleans Saints finalized several offensive roster moves in preparation for Sunday's kickoff against the Detroit Lions. Running back Audric Estimé has been placed on the Injured Reserve list with a thigh injury, a move that will sideline him for the team's first four games, though the injury is not considered season-ending. This decision follows Estimé's absence from practice since the final preseason game.

In response to Estimé's injury and ongoing concerns with veteran Alvin Kamara, the Saints elevated rookie running back CJ Donaldson from the practice squad to the active roster. Donaldson is slated to make his NFL debut if he sees action against the Lions, providing depth alongside Travis Etienne Jr. and Kendre Miller. This move shores up the running back corps, bringing the active total to four.

Further strengthening the offense, tight end Treyton Welch has returned to the active roster. Welch, who has spent the last two seasons on the practice squad, is expected to provide receiving ability as Oscar Delp has been ruled out. Wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. has also been promoted from the practice squad, adding to the receiving depth for Sunday's game.