Saints Activate WR Jordyn Tyson and LT Kelvin Banks From Injured Reserve

The Saints activate Jordyn Tyson and Kelvin Banks Jr. from injured reserve

The New Orleans Saints are getting a significant boost to their offensive unit ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Cleveland Browns. According to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the team plans to activate wide receiver Jordyn Tyson and left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. from injured reserve.

The Saints confirmed the activations shortly after the report surfaced. For a team looking to stabilize its offensive production, the return of these two players represents a major shift in personnel availability. Tyson, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, is the most high-profile addition to the active roster. His return marks the end of a frustrating rookie season hampered by a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the first half of the year.

The timing of these moves comes as New Orleans looks to address specific deficiencies in their recent performances. TSN reports that the team is also making roster adjustments to accommodate these returns, specifically releasing running back Kendre Miller. Miller, a 2023 third-round pick from TCU, had been a primary contributor to a struggling run game this season, totaling 159 yards. To fill the void, the Saints have claimed running back Audric Estime off waivers from the Cleveland Browns, a player who was previously with the Saints during training camp before being waived with an injury settlement.

The road to recovery for Jordyn Tyson

Tyson’s journey back to the field has been defined by a series of physical setbacks. While the current hamstring issue was a significant hurdle, TSN reports that both Tyson and the Saints clarified the injury was not related to his previous hamstring problems in college, where he missed three games for Arizona State last year. This specific injury occurred on August 13 during a joint practice with the Jacksonville Jaguars, when he landed awkwardly after making a catch.

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The rookie’s medical history is extensive. During his time at Colorado, Tyson suffered a torn ACL, MCL, and PCL in his left knee in 2022. He also dealt with a fractured collarbone in 2024 and an ankle sprain that kept him out of spring practices in 2025. Despite the long list of injuries, Tyson has maintained a positive outlook on the downtime.

“Kind of got a slow start to the NFL, so I got to kind of take my time and kind of really adjust to it,” Tyson said.

Tyson has described the extended period of rehabilitation as “a blessing,” allowing him the time necessary to adjust to the professional level. Before his injury, he arrived in New Orleans with a prolific collegiate resume, having recorded 158 receptions for 2,282 yards and 22 touchdowns across his seasons at Arizona State and Colorado.

Stabilizing the offensive line and passing game

While Tyson provides a vertical threat, the activation of Kelvin Banks Jr. addresses the foundational needs of the offensive line. Banks Jr. is returning to the lineup following surgery on his ankle. Like Tyson, Banks has been listed as questionable on the injury report as the team manages his integration back into game speed.

New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. (71) is carted off the field after being injured in the second half — Photo: tsn.ca

The presence of both players is expected to alter the dynamic of the Saints’ passing attack. Tyson is slated to join Chris Olave, the team’s current leader with 49 catches and 636 yards, creating a duo that the organization had hoped to utilize much earlier in the season. This connection with quarterback Tyler Shough has been a primary goal for the coaching staff, though training camp injuries prevented the pair from developing their chemistry during the preseason.

Saints WR Jordyn Tyson, LT Kelvin Banks return to practice

The impact of these returns is particularly vital given the team’s recent struggles on the ground. In their last game before the bye week—a 10-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Paris—the Saints managed only 18 rushing yards. The offense will now look to integrate Tyson and Banks Jr. alongside other active contributors, including Devaughn Vele and tight end Juwan Johnson, to find more consistent rhythm.