James Hurst found out on short notice that he’d be stepping in for tackle Terron Armstead who was placed on the COVID-19 reserve list Saturday but the first-year Saint said he was ready.
“We've known that all year, every team's going through those kind of, you know, situations,” Hurst said. “So, it's part of the season this year. It's part of what I do, I try to prepare like you're going to start every week, regardless of COVID. So, yeah, you kind of take it in stride. You do whatever you can. And at least I got one day to really know that I was going to be starting here and prepare and be ready."
Hurst played well Sunday, helping the Saints rush for a season-high 229 yards in the 31-3 win against the Broncos.
Hurst was just one of several Saints players that have had to step up this season due to injuries. The Saints however haven’t missed a beat despite the shuffling.
"Those guys are doing a real good job,” Saints coach Sean Payton said. “You're coaching everyone. You're not just coaching your five starters. And it's rare on a Wednesday you have your starters practicing that first day. So I'm pleased with how that group's playing overall. And I think those guys are doing well."
Hurst credited the Saints coaches for keeping players ready to play.
"I think our coaches do a great job of preparing us,” Hurst said. “We have got a lot of versatile guys, we have got a lot of guys that have played, started a lot. So that is always a big bonus.
“But, our coaches do a great job, making sure everyone understands the game plan, everyone understands contingencies, if you will.”
Saints running back Alvin Kamara said ball carriers have been very confident running behind that line no matter who’s been in.
“Those dudes, they come to work every week and they're ready and they're available for the most part unless, obviously, injuries occurred,” Kamara said. “The next guy that's up always does what they're supposed to do. I think it's a testament to that room, they're warriors and they get the job done."
