The New Orleans Saints knew that bad news was coming when starting defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins had to be carted off the field against the Philadelphia Eagles, and they may have received confirmation. Per a report from Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, Rankins is believed to have torn the Achilles tendon in his left leg early in the first quarter.
This would make Rankins one of two Saints to suffer that injury this season, joining wide receiver Dez Bryant. Defensive end Alex Okafor also sustained a torn Achilles last year but made a full recovery, and returned for the start of the following regular season.