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Tyson, selected eighth overall in the 2026 NFL draft, is preparing for his professional debut after a lengthy recovery process. The wide receiver had been sidelined since August 13, when he sustained a right hamstring injury during a joint practice session against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Following the injury, which occurred after an awkward landing on a reception, initial projections suggested a recovery timeline of at least two months.
Rookie Pair Returns to Action Following Injury Layoffs
Tyson’s return to the field comes after he successfully resumed practice sessions this week. The rookie has navigated a challenging path to his debut, having dealt with various injuries throughout his collegiate career, including a significant knee injury in 2022 and a collarbone fracture in 2024. Despite this history, both the player and the organization have confirmed that his current hamstring issue was unrelated to previous ailments. Reflecting on the extended recovery period, Tyson described the time away as a blessing, noting that it allowed him to adjust to the demands of the NFL at a measured pace.
Joining Tyson on the active roster is Kelvin Banks Jr., who also returns to the lineup following surgery on his ankle. Like the wide receiver, Banks had been listed as questionable on the team's injury report throughout the week but has cleared the necessary hurdles to participate in Sunday's game. The return of the left tackle provides crucial reinforcement for the Saints' offensive line.
Roster Adjustments and Team Context
To accommodate the activation of Tyson from injured reserve, the Saints have made a corresponding move by releasing running back Kendre Miller. This roster shuffle underscores the team's commitment to prioritizing the availability of their top draft selections as they prepare for the contest against Cleveland. With both Tyson and Banks now cleared for action, the Saints will look to utilize their rookie reinforcements to strengthen their offensive output on the field.
