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Crushing Blow: Saints’ Radunz Lost for Season to Torn ACL
Saints Training Camp Hit Hard by Injuries: What You Need to Know
The Big News: Two Starters Lost for the Season
The New Orleans Saints are having a tough start to training camp. In just the first week, two important players have suffered season-ending knee injuries. Here’s what happened in simple terms:
IMPORTANT POINT
Both injuries are torn ACLs — a serious knee ligament tear that requires surgery and months of recovery. This means both players will miss the entire 2026 season.
Who Got Hurt?
1. Dillon Radunz — Offensive Guard
- What happened: Limped off during practice on Saturday during line drills
- His role: Started 10 games last season as a key backup who could play multiple positions
- Status: Out for the season — confirmed by coach Kellen Moore
2. Bryan Bresee — Defensive Tackle
- What happened: Tore his ACL at the very start of camp
- His role: Young defensive lineman expected to play significant snaps
- Status: Out for the season — injured before Radunz
Other Players Dealing with Issues
| Player | Position | Issue | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cameron Jordan | Defensive End | Hamstring injury from Thursday | Missed Sunday practice; getting more tests |
| Alvin Kamara | Running Back | Missed Saturday for Hall of Fame event | Back at practice Sunday |
| Zach Wood | Long Snapper | Missed Saturday for Hall of Fame event | Back at practice Sunday |
| Julian Blackmon | Safety | Knee injury Saturday | Returned to practice Sunday |
| Chris Olave | Wide Receiver | Wrist issue Saturday | Practiced normally Sunday |
NOTE
Kamara and Wood missed Saturday’s practice to attend Drew Brees’ Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony — a special event honoring the Saints’ legendary quarterback.
What This Means for the Team
The Offensive Line Just Got Thinner
- Radunz was versatile — could play guard or tackle
- Now the Saints have less depth — fewer quality backups if starters get hurt
- Young players get a chance — rookies and second-year players will see more practice reps
The Defense Loses a Rising Star
- Bresee was expected to grow into a bigger role in 2026
- Jordan’s hamstring adds concern on the defensive line
- Next man up — other defensive tackles must step up immediately
Timeline of Events
- Start of Camp → Bryan Bresee tears ACL
- Thursday Practice → Cameron Jordan hurts hamstring
- Saturday Practice →
- Dillon Radunz tears ACL
- Julian Blackmon hurts knee (returned Sunday)
- Chris Olave hurts wrist (returned Saturday)
- Kamara & Wood absent for Brees ceremony
- Sunday Practice →
- Jordan still out
- Kamara, Wood, Blackmon, Olave all participating
Summary
The Saints’ 2026 training camp has been defined by bad injury luck so far. Losing two starters to torn ACLs in one week is rare and damaging. However, there’s good news too: most other banged-up players have already returned, and the team still has time to adjust before the regular season starts.
Key takeaways:
- Radunz and Bresee are done for the year
- Jordan’s hamstring is being evaluated
- Kamara, Wood, Blackmon, and Olave are back practicing
- Young players will get valuable reps with the starters out
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What is an ACL tear and why does it end a season?
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is a major knee stabilizer. When torn, it requires surgery and 6–9 months of rehab. NFL players almost never return the same season.
Who replaces Dillon Radunz?
The Saints will likely use a combination of younger players — possibly 2025 draft picks or veterans signed for depth. Coach Moore will experiment with different line combinations in practice.
Is Cameron Jordan’s hamstring serious?
We don’t know yet. Hamstring injuries range from mild strains (1–2 weeks) to severe tears (months). The fact he’s "gathering more information" suggests the team is being cautious with their veteran star.
Why did Kamara and Wood miss practice for a ceremony?
Drew Brees is the greatest player in Saints history. The Hall of Fame enshrinement is a once-in-a-lifetime honor. The team gave them permission to attend — showing respect for franchise legends.
Should Saints fans panic?
No. Training camp injuries happen to every team. The Saints still have:
- A talented quarterback (Derek Carr)
- Elite skill players (Olave, Kamara, Rashid Shaheed)
- A creative new offense under Kellen Moore
- Time to find solutions before Week 1
Article based on ESPN reporting by Katherine Terrell, August 9, 2026
