Drew Brees ruled out Sunday vs. Panthers
New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton confirmed quarterback Drew Brees won't play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers.
Luke McCown will start in Brees' absence. McCown last saw meaningful playing time in 2011 when he suited up for four games with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
It's the first game Brees will miss due to injury in his 10-year tenure with the Saints, starting 82 consecutive games.
Brees suffered a rotator cuff injury to his throwing shoulder in a Week 2 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He completed the game, going 24-of-38 for 255 yards and a touchdown against an interception.
Brees said while it was a difficult decision, he believes McCown is the best option for the Saints this week.
"I haven't missed a game due to injury in 20 years, since my junior year of high school," Brees told Ed Werner of ESPN. "I consider myself very fortunate for that.
"Another reason why this decision was so tough. Bottom line is Luke McCown gives us the best chance to win this week. I have to be honest with myself and do what is in the best interest of the team."
The nine-time Pro Bowler said Wednesday he was pretty confident about playing, but the injury has since been deemed too severe to overcome ahead of Sunday's game.
Off to a 0-2 start, the Saints could be in serious trouble without the face of their franchise against the two-time NFC South champion Panthers.