09/25/2009 – New Orleans running back situation is in a state of flux going into Sunday’s game against Buffalo as leading rusher Mike Bell won’t play. Bell missed practice all week with a sprained MCL in his right knee. Coach Sean Payton didn’t want to discuss the running back rotation after Friday’s practice. The Saints could use a trio of running back against the Bills with Pierre Thomas, Reggie Bush and Lynell Hamilton all seeing possible action.
Thomas (knee) is set to return to action after missing out on carries in Week 2. It’s not sure how much work he will get since Bush and Hamilton are both 100 percent. Bush is probably the safest play out of all three backs, with Thomas being at best a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option and Hamilton a desperation start. It’s a tough matchup for the Saints on the ground since Buffalo has a top 10 rush defense.
09/11/2009 – As expected, Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) was listed as out for Week 1 against Detroit. Thomas did not take part in any team drills this week and has been out since the second preseason game with the injury. With Thomas a no-go, coach Sean Payton said potentially it could mean a split load for Reggie Bush and Mike Bell. “We feel like Mike had a pretty good training camp and Reggie is healthy. You’ve got to have enough gas back there to where you’re not just leaning on one player,” Payton said.
Keep Thomas reserved for Week 1 in all leagues, and hopefully he can return for Week 2 at Philadelphia. Bell is a great replacement option and should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB in Week 1. Bush also remains an excellent start against the Lions and should be active in all formats.
09/09/2009 – Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) practiced with a brace on his right knee during the portion of practice the media was allowed to watch Thursday. He is listed on the injury report as questionable for Week 1 against Detroit after missing practice Wednesday.
This is encouraging news for Thomas, but we still expect him to miss this week after being injured in the second preseason game and missing the final two preseason outings. Thomas could be a game-time decision, but the Saints will probably be cautious and not give him much playing time if he does get in there. Mike Bell would be a great replacement for Thomas if you’re looking for someone off the waiver wire, and Bell has played well during the preseason with Thomas hurt.