Former Saints first-round pick to make long-awaited return vs. Falcons

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated 1/6/24

The New Orleans Saints are getting reinforcements for their defense in Week 18. Just in time for a pivotal NFC South matchup, their 2021 first-round selection will be back on the field.

Payton Turner will play for the first time since Week 1, according to Saints head coach Dennis Allen.

Seven Saints listed as questionable (two because of new illnesses that popped up Friday).

Dennis Allen said RB Alvin Kamara is so valuable that they’ll wait up until game time to make a decision on him.

Allen said DE Payton Turner will be activated from IR and play. pic.twitter.com/l6hNGDXUcd
— Mike Triplett (@MikeTriplett) January 5, 2024

On Friday, Saints general manager Mickey Loomis announced that turner has been activated from injured reserve.

Since being the 28th overall pick in 2021, Turner has played in just thirteen games due to injury. In those contests, he's totaled 29 tackles, three sacks, and a blocked field goal.

When on the field, Turner's athleticism and strength have flashed at times. The former Houston Cougar is a physical specimen at 6'6" and 270 pounds. His pass rush ability is impressive, but he must stay on the field to make an impact.

Linebacker Nephi Sewell was placed on injured reserve to create room on the roster for Turner. Sewell suffered a serious knee injury in Week 17 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Saints have been one of the worst teams in the NFL when it comes to sack totals. They have 33 sacks on the season, ranking 29th in the league.

They hope that Turner will create a stronger pass rush for their defense to finish the season. He will slot in behind Carl Granderson and Cameron Jordan at edge rusher for New Orleans.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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