NFL teams
Mike Triplett, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

Mark Ingram listed as questionable, but should carry heavy load for Saints

METAIRIE, La. -- New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers. But he insisted this week that his shoulder injury is nothing serious and he will be ready to go.

And chances are, Ingram will continue to carry a heavy load since fellow running backs Khiry Robinson (arm) and Pierre Thomas (shoulder/rib) have officially been ruled out.

Ingram said he suffered the unspecified injury during the 28-10 victory against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 30. He still carried the ball 30 times for 100 yards in that game, and has had an extra few days of recovery time since.

Saints linebacker David Hawthorne (hand) was also ruled out for Sunday’s game. Offensive tackle Zach Strief (chest), center Jonathan Goodwin (knee), and receiver Robert Meachem (ankle) are listed as questionable. It’s tough to predict all three of their statuses, since Goodwin is recovering from a sprained MCL and the other two missed at least two days of practice this week. Strief was able to do at least some individual work during the portion of practice open to the media on Friday.

Tight end Jimmy Graham (shoulder) and receiver Kenny Stills (thigh) are listed as probable. There is little concern about Graham, who has practiced fully all week. Stills was limited in practice, but also appears good based on that designation.

If Meachem can’t play, the Saints will likely activate Nick Toon as their fourth receiver. Toon has been active for one game this season, and played only on special teams.

The third-year pro admitted that it’s tough to deal with not playing -- especially after he felt like he performed well in training camp. But Toon said he understands the Saints’ depth at the position and said he just tries to take the mentality each week that he’s preparing to play.

"You guys (in the media) were at camp, saw the camp that I had, and I feel like it was a solid camp," Toon said. "But I don’t make the decision on who’s playing and not playing. It’s just about being ready, being patient and being prepared."

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