The mysterious and extended absence for Tre'Quan Smith now has some clarity, with the WR expected to miss the start of the regular season.
The veteran wide receiver underwent surgery last month to repair a groin issue, according to a report from Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com. His timetable to return is unclear, but Smith has not practiced since Aug. 6 when he left practice earlier with the injury.
It's just another in a frustrating series of injuries for the 27-year-old, who has been a mainstay in the Saints' offensive plans when available since he was drafted in the third round out of Central Florida is 2018. He is the last remaining member of that draft class on the roster, which also included DE Marcus Davenport.
Smith's biggest contribution has been often under-appreciated with significant roles on blocking and special teams. In his career he's caught 131 passes for 1,764 yards and 18 touchdowns.
The next question for Smith will be whether he heads to injured reserve to start the season, a move that would keep him out at least four weeks before he is eligible to return. The Saints are otherwise healthy at the wide receiver position, with Michael Thomas avoiding any injury pitfalls throughout camp, Rashid Shaheed returning from his own groin injury in recent weeks, and Chris Olave entering a highly anticipated Year 2. Another veteran in Keith Kirkwood provides depth and blocking potential, having made a 53-man roster out of camp for the first time in his 6-year NFL career.
The Saints open with the Tennessee Titans on Sept. 10. For the full report from NOLA.com, click here.
