One step forward, two steps back. The New Orleans Saints have shown some encouraging signs in recent weeks, highlighted by the improved play of rookie quarterback Tyler Shough. As he has progressed, the young QB has found an unexpected connection with receiver Devaughn Vele.
The Saints traded for Vele back in August, and after a quiet start to the season, the 27-year-old has quietly had a breakout campaign.
Unfortunately, the team announced this week that he will be moving to the Injured Reserve. After putting up 200 receiving yards in the last three games, Vele’s season is over.
Saints move WR Devaughn Vele to IR
Vele suffered a shoulder injury during the Saints' Week 15 win over the Carolina Panthers. Before going down, the receiver had already totaled five catches for 69 yards. He was seen wearing a sling and is now done for the season.
It doesn't seem like the injury is serious, and the young wideout should be fully healthy by the start of training camp. Still, the injury comes as a frustrating roadblock in the middle of an encouraging stretch of games.
Vele had emerged as Shough's favorite target, outside of Chris Olave. In his first nine games with New Orleans, the receiver caught just six total passes. But after the team traded away Rashid Shaheed, he stepped into a bigger role. He's caught 19 passes on 26 targets over the last four games, nearly matching Olave's totals during that stretch. With three games to go in the season, he was on track to solidify himself as the Saints' second receiver.
Now, the Saints will have to rely on Kevin Austin and Mason Tipton to contribute in bigger roles in the offense. New Orleans may not be playing for a spot in the postseason over the next three weeks, but this injury could affect Shough's development as well as the development of one of their most promising pass catchers. Hopefully, Vele is able to pick up right where he left off at the beginning of the 2026 season.