Saints’ Top Tight End Back in Action After Injury Scare
New Orleans Saints fans can breathe a sigh of relief—
Juwan Johnson, the team’s leading tight end, has been cleared to play after a brief injury scare that had the offense on edge. Johnson, who suffered an ankle injury and was listed as questionable earlier this month, returned to full practice and will suit up for Sunday’s game, giving the Saints a much-needed boost at a position already thin due to injuries to fellow tight ends Taysom Hill and Foster Moreau.
Johnson’s Rising Role in New Orleans
Johnson’s return couldn’t come at a better time. With Hill and Moreau sidelined by knee injuries, Johnson is expected to see an increased workload in head coach Kellen Moore’s revamped offense. Last season, Johnson set career highs with
50 catches, 548 yards, and three touchdowns, emerging as the Saints’ top receiving tight end. His consistency and reliability have made him a favorite target for quarterback Derek Carr, especially as the Saints navigate a challenging quarterback situation.
The Saints showed their faith in Johnson by signing him to a
three-year, $30.75 million contract this offseason, including
$21.25 million guaranteed—a clear signal that he’s central to their plans moving forward.
Fantasy Football Impact: Johnson’s Stock on the Rise
Fantasy football managers have taken notice. Johnson has racked up
20 targets in just two games this season, scoring at least 15 fantasy points in both contests and playing nearly every offensive snap (
97.8%). He’s run more routes than any other tight end in the league, making him a top TE2 option, especially with the Saints’ other tight ends out and defenses struggling to contain him.
Inside the Locker Room: Culture Shift Under Kellen Moore
Johnson’s leadership extends beyond the stat sheet. Since Moore’s arrival, veterans like Johnson have helped transform the team’s culture, bringing renewed energy and focus to the locker room. With the Saints’ offense in flux and several key players sidelined, Johnson’s presence and experience are more valuable than ever.
What’s Next for Johnson and the Saints?
With Johnson healthy and ready to go, the Saints are hoping to capitalize on his playmaking ability as they push for a playoff spot. The team’s offensive line remains a concern, and the quarterback situation is still unsettled, but Johnson’s reliability gives New Orleans a fighting chance in a tough NFC South.
For fantasy managers and Saints fans alike, Johnson’s return is a sign that the best may be yet to come. Keep an eye on his targets and red zone usage—if the Saints’ offense finds its rhythm, Johnson could be in for a career year.
Sources
1. Juwan Johnson Fantasy News (2025)
2. NFL Week 3 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy tips - ESPN
3. Trevor Penning, Juwan Johnson upgraded on Saints’ injury report
4. 2025 NFL offseason grades: Draft, trades, more moves by team
5. Taysom Hill's first pass attempt of 2025 complete to Juwan Johnson
6. Overreactions: Saints vs. Seahawks - Canal Street Chronicles
7. Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints, TE - Fantasy Football News ...
8. Starting with a bang - Tyler Warren, Harold Fannin catch 7 passes in ...
9. Juwan Johnson - NFL News, Rumors, & Updates | FOX Sports
10. Fantasy Football '25: Waiver Wire, Week 3 Edition | Big Blue View
