Following an explosive 2-0 start, the New Orleans Saints have grounded to a halt with a four-game losing streak and now the loss of their biggest deep threat.
Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed will undergo meniscus surgery and is a candidate for injured reserve, head coach Dennis Allen announced on Wednesday.
During the surgery, it will be determined as to whether it's a trim -- which would leave a chance to return this year -- or a full repair that would end his 2024 season, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.
Shaheed will obviously be a no-go for Thursday night’s anticipated matchup with the Denver Broncos and former Saints head coach Sean Payton.
He won't be the only Saints standout sidelined for TNF, as fellow wideout Chris Olave has been ruled out with a concussion, quarterback Derek Carr (oblique) has no firm timeline to return and tight end Taysom Hill (rib) is doubtful to play.
Shaheed had touchdown receptions of 59 and 70 yards in the Saints' Week 1 and Week 2 victories, respectively, symbolic of the team's incendiary opening to the season.
He's posted 20 catches for 349 yards and three touchdowns over five games and also leads the NFL with an average of 15.9 yards per punt return with a touchdown included.
As the 2-4 Saints sputter into Thursday night, Shaheed's injury doesn't bode well for big plays ahead.
