The New Orleans Saints will be playing the Carolina Panthers this week, and there's a chance they get back one of their players for the matchup. Travis Etienne Jr. has missed several games this season due to a hamstring injury, but he was able to get back on the field this week and practice with the group.
On the final day of practice, Etienne was asked how it felt to be back.
“It was a great week of practice. Just being out there with the guys, just feeling that energy and playing football again. Not doing all the rehabs and just watching the guys go out there and play, practice and have fun and I'm just here watching them. It was good to be back with the guys and have the energy, and just be a part of that again,” Etienne said.
The running back was then asked if he would be playing against the Panthers.
“I hope so. I definitely want to. I'm just here to help the team, and I feel like I'm not much help when out there on the sideline in my street clothes. I hope they'll let me suit up and I go out there and just be a valuable asset to the team,” Etienne said.
It would be big if the Saints could get Etienne back sooner rather than later, and it looks like he has a good opportunity to return this week. While he's been sidelined, Alvin Kamara has been taking the lead in the backfield like the old days as they try to establish the run.
The Saints were able to get an overtime win against the Cleveland Browns last week, and the hope is that they can build on that momentum going into this week.