Saints' Sanders tests positive for COVID-19, won't face Panthers
The New Orleans Saints placed Emmanuel Sanders on the reserve/COVID-19 list after the wide receiver tested positive for the virus, head coach Sean Payton announced Friday, according to Katherine Terrell of The Athletic.
Sanders practiced Wednesday and Thursday but was held out of Friday's session.
The 33-year-old has symptoms and wasn't feeling well, Terrell adds. The Saints tested approximately 20 individuals who were around Sanders and though all tests returned negative, the team still decided to place cornerback Ken Crawley on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
Sanders' absence means the Saints will be without their top two wideouts in Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers, as Michael Thomas was also ruled out due to ankle and hamstring injuries.
The veteran wideout, who joined the Saints in the offseason, has racked up 26 receptions for 304 yards and two touchdowns through five games this season.
Running back Alvin Kamara, wide receiver Tre'Quan Smith, and tight end Jared Cook will likely be Drew Brees' main targets Sunday. Kamara leads New Orleans with 38 receptions, 395 receiving yards, and three touchdowns this season.
Coming off a bye, the 3-2 Saints will try to extend their two-game winning streak against the Panthers.