The New Orleans Saints defense took a hit in the first half against the Minnesota Vikings, with starting middle linebacker Kiko Alonso exiting the wild-card round game with a knee injury. Alonso had missed several regular season games with a quadriceps muscle issue, so this is a different problem for him to manage. The Saints announced that he is questionable to return.
Acquired in a preseason trade with the Miami Dolphins, Alonso’s playing-time has increased as the year wore on and he became a staple of the defense by the time they really got rolling in November. His ability to run well both vertically and laterally makes him a valuable asset in pass coverage.
The good news is that the Saints offense will receive the ball after halftime, meaning Alonso has a little more time to receive treatment from the Saints medical staff. But the fact that he was questionable to return at all is enough to suggest he may not play again on Sunday. It’s certainly a situation to monitor as the game progresses.
With starters Demario Davis and A.J. Klein both healthy and in the game — Davis specifically has made several plays in coverage and run defense — Alonso won’t be pressured to come back if his body isn’t ready. The Saints have bigger aspirations than just a win today, and if they can clinch it with Alonso sidelined, they’ll do so. But it starts with Drew Brees and the Saints offense making adjustments at halftime after a disappointing first half. Minnesota will kick the ball away to start the third quarter, so Brees will get his opportunity very soon. Right now, they trail the Vikings 13-10.
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