Saints center Erik McCoy suffered a groin injury in Sunday’s loss to the Eagles that is expected to require surgery, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. With a six to eight-week recovery period, McCoy is likely to land on injured reserve, though the injury is not expected to end the 2023 Pro Bowler’s season.
McCoy has been an integral part of the Saints’ new-look offense under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, which has produced 34.3 points per game, second-most in the NFL. His 95.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus leads all offensive linemen with just one pressure allowed this year.
Starting left guard, Lucas Patrick is listed as the backup center on the Saints’ depth chart and took over for McCoy on Sunday, so he’s likely the long-term replacement at center. Oli Udoh slid into Patrick’s vacated left guard spot, but both Landon Young and Nick Saldiveri have taken left guard snaps during the regular season. Another week of practice could allow either player to take over the starting gig until McCoy is healthy.
McCoy’s timeline indicates that he could return as soon as Week 10, but the Saints will not want to rush his recovery from surgery. New Orleans may take a conservative approach and hold McCoy out until after their Week 12 bye to ensure he’s fully healthy.
