REPORT: New Orleans Saints RB Alvin Karma Might Not Play As Rash Of Illness Hits Team

A rash of illness is showing up for the New Orleans Saints at the worst time in Week 17. They might reportedly not have star running back Alvin Kamara available to play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers because of it.

The 7-8 Saints need to win their matchup against the 8-7 Buccaneers if they want a chance to win the NFC South and slip into the playoffs. But that task became more challenging on paper Friday.

The New Orleans Saints are battling the Buccs and illness

According to the Saints injury report, Kamara was added to the list on Friday due to an illness. He did not participate in practice Friday. Punter Lou Hedley was also added to the injury report for an illness Friday. Safety Jordan Howden has been battling an illness this week.

Losing Kamara would be devastating for the Saints against the Buccaneers. He has over 1,000 yards combined in rushing and receiving this season. He’s added six total touchdowns for the Saints offense in 2023.

Kamara is one concern, but the Saints have to be worried about adding two names to the injury report for an illness Friday. It’s possible more players could be affected before Sunday’s game.