Rashid Shaheed’s Season Ends Abruptly
Rashid Shaheed, the dynamic wide receiver and punt returner for the New Orleans Saints, is set to miss the remainder of the 2024 NFL season. A debilitating knee injury has necessitated surgery, specifically a full repair of the meniscus, sidelining the 26-year-old athlete for the entire season. This news comes as a significant blow to both Shaheed and the Saints, given his outstanding impact on the field.
Breaking Out in Style
Shaheed, an undrafted free agent from Weber State, has been a revelation in the NFL. Making his mark initially as a special teams ace, Shaheed went on to earn his first Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro selections in 2023 as a punt returner. This accolade encapsulated his explosive ability and exceptional skill in special teams play.
In 2024, Shaheed showcased his versatility and effectiveness as a wide receiver. Through the first six games of the season, he managed to find the end zone three times on receiving touchdowns. His innate ability to stretch the field was evidenced by his 17.5 yards per catch average, ranking him second among players with at least 20 receptions in average yards per catch. His penchant for breaking free on long gains complemented his prowess in special teams, where he led the league with 15.9 yards per punt return.
A Season of Explosive Plays
The 2024 season was brimming with explosive plays from Shaheed, who scored four touchdowns of 40 yards or more, three of which came through his receiving capability. A highlight of Shaheed’s season was a spectacular 70-yard receiving touchdown in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys, exemplifying his game-breaking ability and speed. Additionally, a standout 54-yard punt return added to his highlight reel this year.
Saints Shuffling for Week 7
The New Orleans Saints face a challenging Week 7 matchup on "Thursday Night Football" against the Denver Broncos without key offensive weapons. Alongside Shaheed, the Saints will also miss quarterback Derek Carr, offensive guard Cesar Ruiz, and fellow wide receiver Chris Olave. The absence of Shaheed and Olave, who together have accounted for over half of the Saints’ receiving yards in 2024, puts a spotlight on the remaining offensive options.
To navigate this difficult period, the Saints will rely on rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler to lead the offense. This scenario offers Rattler both a formidable challenge and a significant opportunity to prove his mettle under the lights on a prime-time stage.
Broncos Short-Staffed in the Secondary
The Denver Broncos, on their end, will also be without a key defensive player. All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II, known for his exceptional coverage skills and a league-best opponent passer rating of 14.7, will miss the game due to a concussion. Surtain’s absence could present a silver lining for the Saints’ offense as they attempt to find a rhythm without some of their top playmakers.
As the Saints and Broncos prepare to meet, each team must adapt to a host of challenges. While the absence of Rashid Shaheed is undoubtedly a setback, New Orleans will have to dig deep into their roster to uncover potential replacements capable of delivering the needed spark. The game promises to test the resilience and depth of both squads, setting the stage for a compelling competition on Thursday night.