Saints Starting RT Zach Srief Has Strained MCL

Opening night was anything but ideal for the New Orleans Saints, who landed on the wrong end of a 29-19 thrashing by the Minnesota Vikings.

In addition to losing the game, the Saints lost starting right tackle Zach Strief.

According to multiple reports today, Strief suffered a strained MCL. Typically, recovery from an strained MCL back to the football field takes about a month. If rehab goes well, Strief should be able to return to the Saints lineup following their week 5 bye.

New Orleans is already without starting left tackle Terron Armstead, who is recovering from shoulder surgery. The exact timetable of his return is unknown. He did not begin the season on IR or the PUP (physically unable to perform) list, so the Saints likely expect him back sometime before week 8.

The Saints offensive line struggled against the Vikings front four, forcing New Orleans to use more max protection in the second half, leaving quarterback Drew Brees with less targets in the open field.