Taysom Hill suffered a devastating knee injury on Sunday during the New Orleans Saints’ matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, as he was caught in a violent collision between two Rams defenders. The versatile Saints playmaker, who has been a crucial part of the team’s offense this season, is now feared to be out for the remainder of the year.
The injury occurred in the second half as Hill, 34, was carrying the ball. He has been a key asset for the Saints, lining up in various positions throughout the season. On this particular play, Hill found himself sandwiched between Rams defenders Cobie Durant and Jared Verse. Durant came in low, launching his helmet directly into Hill’s knee, while Verse wrapped him up from behind. The force of the impact caused Hill’s knee to bend back awkwardly, leaving fans and teammates visibly shaken by the scene.
As Hill lay on the field, trainers rushed to his side to assess the extent of the injury. After a few tense moments, the decision was made to stretcher him off. As he was being taken off the field, Hill mustered a wave to the fans in the stands, acknowledging their cheers and support during what was clearly a difficult moment.
Unfortunately, early reports suggest that Hill may have sustained a season-ending knee injury. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that there is serious concern regarding the severity of the injury, with an MRI scheduled for Monday to determine the full extent of the damage.
If confirmed, this would be a significant blow to the Saints, who have relied heavily on Hill’s versatility and playmaking ability throughout the season.
RELATED: 49ers Deliver Concerning Injury Update on Christian McCaffrey
The hit by Durant has sparked a backlash from fans, many of whom took to social media to express their anger at the nature of the collision. Durant’s low hit, which targeted Hill’s knee, drew criticism for being reckless and dangerous. On X (formerly known as Twitter), fans did not hold back in their disapproval.
“Here’s Cobie Durant aiming for and blowing out the knees of Taysom Hill like the dirty player he is. What is [Sean] McVay teaching them in LA?” one fan wrote, highlighting the frustration felt by many.
Another fan echoed similar sentiments, writing, “Dirty a** hit by a dirty a** team. F*** LA.” The intensity of the comments reflected the emotional response from fans who have grown accustomed to seeing Hill make big plays for New Orleans.
Not all comments were outright accusatory, though. One fan stopped short of labeling Durant as dirty but emphasized the need for better tackling techniques among cornerbacks. “Cornerbacks like Cobie Durant need better tackling techniques taught. I don’t believe this is dirty, outside corners are typically taught to put their bodies low to knock a ball carrier down. He just did it really f*****g weird,” the fan commented, pointing out the fine line between aggressive play and dangerous hits.
Hill’s absence would leave a significant void in the Saints’ offensive lineup. Up until the injury, he was in the midst of a productive season, contributing in multiple ways.
He had racked up 278 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, along with 23 receptions for 187 receiving yards. Hill’s unique ability to play as a quarterback, running back, tight end, and wide receiver makes him an invaluable asset to the Saints, and losing him would undoubtedly impact their offensive versatility.
This was not the first time Hill has been forced to leave a game this season due to injury. Earlier in the year, he dealt with a bruised lung and cracked ribs, showing just how physically demanding his role can be. Despite the injuries, Hill has continued to fight for his team, making his latest setback all the more heartbreaking.
Interim head coach Darren Rizzi addressed the injury after the game, expressing the disappointment felt by the team. “Taysom goes down, a lot of the guys are disappointed,” Rizzi said, per ESPN. “He’s obviously a very respected and well-liked guy in our locker room.” The sentiment was clear—Hill is not just a player but a leader and a source of inspiration for the Saints.
With the Saints’ playoff hopes still hanging in the balance, the loss of Taysom Hill would be a significant hurdle for the team to overcome.
The coming days will reveal more about the severity of the injury, but for now, the Saints and their fans are left hoping for the best while fearing the worst.
