Payton Turner Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Eagles vs Cowboys game on Sunday with our National Football League injury report.Aug 26, 2025
Missing four games at least
The Cowboys placed Turner (ribs) on injured reserve Tuesday, ruling him out for at least the first four games of the regular season.
ANALYSIS
Turner could have his practice window opened after Week 4 and be back on the field in time to suit up Week 5 against the Jets on Sunday, Oct. 5, depending on the recovery timetable required for his ribs injury. Once fully healthy, 2021 first-round pick, who spent the first four years of his NFL career in New Orleans, will work to carve out a depth role in the Cowboys' pass-rush rotation.
Aug 17, 2025
Past ribs injury
Turner logged two tackles (one solo) in Dallas' preseason loss Saturday versus Baltimore.
ANALYSIS
Turner suffered a ribs injury during practice last week but is now healthy again. He signed with the team back in March and is competing to earn a spot on the final roster as a backup defensive end.
Aug 12, 2025
Dealing with rib injury
Turner left Tuesday's training camp practice due to a rib injury, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner appeared to initially suffer the injury during the first quarter of the Cowboys' preseason loss to the Rams on Saturday, but he managed to return to finish with two tackles (one solo) while playing 18 snaps (15 on defense, three on special teams). Turner was on the field for individual drills before heading to the locker room, and he'll undergo further tests to determine the severity of the injury. The results of those tests, coupled with his practice participation over the coming days, will indicate his chances of playing in Saturday's exhibition game against the Ravens.
Mar 11, 2025
Heading to Dallas
The Cowboys are slated to sign Turner to a one-year, $3 million contract, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The 2021 first-round pick played in just 15 regular-season games over the first three years of his NFL career as he struggled to stay healthy. Turner managed to play in 16 regular-season games in 2024 and finished with 21 tackles (10 solo), including 2.0 sacks, four pass defenses and two forced fumbles while serving as a rotational defensive end behind Carl Granderson and Cameron Jordan. Turner would have a chance at a starting role opposite Micah Parsons if DeMarcus Lawrence (foot) opts to sign elsewhere in free agency.
Jan 8, 2025
Stays healthy in 2024
Turner logged 21 tackles (11 solo), including 2.0 sacks, four pass defenses and two forced fumbles across 16 games during the 2024 regular season.
ANALYSIS
Turner played in just 15 regular-season games over the first three years of his NFL career due to injury. He worked alongside Chase Young as the Saints' rotational defensive ends behind starters Carl Granderson and Cameron Jordan, and the reduced workload led to Turner appearing in all but one game during the 2024 regular season. The Saints declined the fifth-year option on Turner's rookie contract, so the 2021 first-round pick will enter the offseason as an unrestricted free agent.
Jan 5, 2025
Good to go for Week 18
Turner (ankle) is active for Sunday's tilt against Tampa Bay.
ANALYSIS
Turner missed the Saints' first two practices of the week due to an ankle injury, but he was a limited participant Friday and has been cleared to suit up in the team's regular-season finale. The fourth-year defensive end has been working in a rotational role throughout the campaign while also serving on special teams. Turner would set a new career high if he can log at least a half-sack Sunday.
Jan 3, 2025
Questionable versus Tampa Bay
Turner (ankle) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Bucs, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner was injured in last Sunday's loss to the Raiders and logged a pair of DNPs on Wednesday and Thursday before returning to a limited practice Friday. The 2021 first-round pick has been a flop in New Orleans, logging 5.0 career sacks and never turning into a starter for the team. He's played in a career-high 15 games this season as a reserve lineman, logging 21 tackles (10 solo), including 2.0 sacks, four pass breakups and two forced fumbles. Turner's rookie contract is set to expire in March.
Dec 29, 2024
Likely out for remainder of Week 17
Turner hurt his ankle against Las Vegas on Sunday and is doubtful to return, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner was deemed doubtful with just over three minutes left in the contest, which adds to the unlikelihood of him returning. Prior to his exit, he recorded one assisted tackle.
Nov 12, 2024
Sacks Cousins in Week 10
Turner finished Sunday's 20-17 win over the Falcons with four tackles (two solo), including 1.0 sacks, one pass defense and one forced fumble.
ANALYSIS
Turner logged his second sack of the regular season Sunday when he got to Kirk Cousins late in the second quarter for a five-yard loss, stripping the ball in the process that was recovered by Drake London. Turner played a season-high 29 snaps on defense, but he's still firmly entrenched as the Saints' No. 4 defensive end behind Cameron Jordan, Carl Granderson and Chase Young. Through nine regular-season games, Turner has logged 13 tackles (eight solo), including 2.0 sacks, three pass defenses and two forced fumbles.
Oct 16, 2024
Will play vs. Broncos
Turner (knee) carries no injury designation ahead of Thursday's game against the Broncos.
ANALYSIS
Turner was held out of the Saints' Week 5 contest against the Chiefs due to a knee injury. He managed to play through the issue Sunday against the Buccaneers, and even on a short week, Turner is slated to suit up for Thursday's contest. He's provided rotational depth at defensive end this year and has accumulated five tackles (three solo), including 1.0 sacks, one pass defended and one forced fumble across five regular-season games.
Oct 14, 2024
Still nursing knee injury
Tunrer (knee) was listed as a limited participant on Monday's practice estimation.
ANALYSIS
Turner played through his knee injury in the Saints' Week 6 loss to the Buccaneers, recording one tackle across 38 total snaps (13 defensive and 25 on special teams). The 2021 first-round pick will likely continue playing through injury in Week 7 unless he downgrades to no participation either Tuesday or Wednesday.
Oct 13, 2024
Set for return
Turner (knee) is active for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay,John Hendrix of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner was forced to miss New Orleans' Week 5 loss to Kansas City but is set to return after turning in two limited practices to close the week. He should resume his rotational role along the defensive line.
Oct 5, 2024
Not playing Monday
Turner (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Monday's game against the Chiefs, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner picked up a knee injury during the Saints' Week 4 loss against the Falcons. He was unable to practice all week, and his next chance at playing will be against the Buccaneers in Week 6. Chase Young and Isaiah Foskey should see more snaps as rotational defensive ends behind starters Cameron Jordan and Carl Granderson.
Aug 23, 2024
In uniform Friday
Turner (toe) was in uniform for Friday's practice, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner being back in uniform just one day after his toe issue was reported is a positive sign towards his availability for Sunday's preseason closer against the Titans and the regular season altogether. The defensive end was on IR for the majority of the 2023 season turf toe injury he sustained in Week 1, but head coach Dennis Allen did report that this injury was just a flare up.
Aug 22, 2024
Nursing toe injury
Head coach Dennis Allen told reporters Thursday that Turner is dealing with a toe injury, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner played in just two regular-season games in 2023 due to a turf toe injury he sustained in Week 1. Allen noted that the injury is just a flare up, and he didn't indicate that Turner would be out for a significant amount of time. Turner has played in just 15 regular-season games since being drafted by New Orleans in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Aug 5, 2024
Returns to practice
Turner (toe) returned to practice Monday, Katherine Terrell of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner sat out practice last week due to a toe injury but is now healthy once again. The 25-year-old will now spend the remainder of the summer competing for a roster spot as a reserve defender.
Aug 4, 2024
Dealing with toe injury
Turner didn't practice Sunday due to a toe injury, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Saints head coach Dennis Allen believes the injury is related to the one Turner suffered in Week 1 last season, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com. That issue limited Turner to just two games during the campaign, though it's not clear if his current injury puts at him at risk of another extended absence.
Jul 16, 2024
Healthy heading into training camp
Turner underwent back surgery in the offseason but will be ready to participate from the start of training camp, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner missed the vast majority of last season due to a turf toe injury he suffered in Week 1, though he did manage to suit up for the Saints' Week 18 win over Atlanta. Injuries have derailed the defense end's career to this point, as he's yet to play in more than eight contests in any of his three NFL campaigns. Turner said Tuesday that he's "feeling healthy right now," and he's currently set to play a rotational role for the Saints in the coming season.
Jan 18, 2024
Plays two games in 2023
Payton Turner logged one tackle while playing two games during the 2023 regular season.
ANALYSIS
Turner sustained a significant toe injury during the season opener and was sidelined on IR until the Week 18 win over Atlanta. As a result, the 2021 first-round pick was significantly hampered by injury for the third season in a row, as he's now appeared in just 15 games during his career. The 2024 campaign will likely serve as a make-or-break season for Turner in New Orleans.
Jan 7, 2024
Cleared Sunday
Turner (toe) is good to go for Sunday's matchup with the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Turner was activated from injured reserve Saturday and will play in his first game since Week 1. Barring any setbacks, the 2021 first-rounder projects to see a healthy workload on the Saints' defensive line.
Jan 5, 2024
Questionable for Sunday
Turner (toe) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Turner was activated from injured reserve and has a chance to play in Sunday's must-win game for New Orleans. The 2021 first-rounder hasn't played since Week 1. He's played in just 14 games since being drafted No. 28 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Jan 5, 2024
Will be available vs. Falcons
Turner (toe) will be activated for Sunday's game versus the Falcons, Erin Summers of the Saints' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner is on track to suit up for his first game since Week 1 on Sunday. New Orleans is in a must-win situation in Week 18 with a spot in the playoffs on the line, and having Turner back will be a boost versus a run-heavy Atlanta team.
Dec 30, 2023
Won't play Week 17
Turner (toe) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Buccaneers.
ANALYSIS
Turner was designated to return from injured reserve in mid-December, and despite a week of limited practice sessions, the 24-year-old won't be making his return in Week 17. The 2021 first-round pick has spent the last 15 weeks on IR, and in his stead, expect Tanoh Kpassagnon to continue seeing more work as a rotational defensive lineman.
Dec 20, 2023
Not yet activated
Turner (toe) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Rams, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner was designated to return from IR on Friday, which allowed him to return to practice. However, with the short week, the team only held a walkthrough Tuesday and Wednesday and he was listed as a limited participant for both. The 24-year-old will work to ramp up his activity next week and return Dec. 31 against the Buccaneers.
Dec 15, 2023
Designated to return from IR
The Saints designated Turner (toe) to return from IR on Friday, but he won't play Sunday against the Giants, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner suffered a turf toe injury in New Orleans' season-opener that he said was "about as bad as it gets" and included two dislocated toes, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com. He's progressed enough to log a limited practice session Friday, but he won't be activated ahead of Sunday's Week 15 contest. The Saints' following game is a Thursday night game against the Rams, and it may be a challenge for Turner to ramp up quickly enough to be ready for that matchup.
Sep 13, 2023
Lands on IR
New Orleans placed Turner (toe) on injured reserve Wednesday, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner played only seven defensive snaps in the Saints' season opener before exiting with a turf toe injury. The issue is serious enough to potentially require surgery, thus his placement on IR. Turner isn't eligible to return until mid-October, with Tanoh Kpassagnon likely seeing increased action in his place.
Sep 11, 2023
Probably needs turf toe surgery
Coach Dennis Allen said Monday that Turner will probably have to have surgery for turf toe, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
It's a brutal break for Turner, who only got to play seven defensive snaps in New Orleans' opener before being forced out with the injury. Exactly how much time he can be expected to miss is anyone's guess at this point, but in the meantime, veteran Tanoh Kpassagnon will probably see increased reps at defensive end.
Sep 10, 2023
Likely requires surgery
Turner is believed to be dealing with turf toe that should require surgery, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner left Sunday's regular-season opener due to his injury, and he'll likely be forced to miss additional time early in the regular season. The 2021 first-rounder has missed significant time due to injuries to begin his professional career, and Tanoh Kpassagnon could see an increased role during Turner's impending absence.
Sep 10, 2023
Leaves with injury
Turner has exited Sunday's game against the Titans with a toe injury, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner's departure will leave New Orleans light on the defensive front, with Tanoh Kpassagnon as the only reserve edge rusher on the depth chart. The former will try and return in the second half.
Dec 20, 2022
Avoids injury report
Turner (ankle) wasn't listed on the Saints' practice report Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
Turner has missed each of New Orleans' previous three games as a result of an ankle injury, but his absence from Tuesday's practice estimate implies that the 23-year-old should be ready to go this weekend against the Browns. He'll likely handle a rotational role alongside Carl Granderson and Tanoh Kpassagnon behind starters Cameron Jordan and Marcus Davenport.
Dec 18, 2022
Inactive again
Turner (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's matchup against Atlanta, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner logged a full practice Friday and was deemed questionable, but he'll still miss a third straight game due to an ankle injury. Carl Granderson and Tanoh Kpassagnon remain candidates for increased roles with Turner sidelined again.
Dec 16, 2022
Deemed questionable for Sunday
Turner (ankle) is questionable for Sunday's matchup against Atlanta, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner logged a full practice Friday after being limited during Wednesday and Thursday's sessions due to an ankle injury that's already cost him back-to-back contests. It's certainly encouraging to see the second-year defensive end back at practice, but his questionable designation suggests he'll be limited if he's ultimately deemed available for Week 15. Carl Granderson figures to remain the primary beneficiary if Turner is ruled out for a third consecutive contest.
Dec 3, 2022
Not playing at Tampa Bay
Turner (ankle) is listed as out for Monday's game at the Buccaneers, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner will miss his second consecutive game with an ankle injury he sustained in Week 11 versus the Rams. In the place of the 2021 first-rounder, Carl Granderson should continue to see increased reps on the edge.
Nov 25, 2022
Won't face 49ers
Turner (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the 49ers, NewOrleans.Football reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner suffered a high-ankle sprain in a Week 11 matchup against the Rams and was labeled week-to-week. He didn't practice in any capacity leading up to Sunday's game against the 49ers and has unsurprisingly been ruled out. He's played a fairly significant role along the Saints' defensive line this season, logging 16 total tackles and two sacks across seven games.
Nov 21, 2022
Has sprained ankle
Turner is week-to-week with a low-ankle sprain, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner's MRI results confirmed his injury is not as bad as initially feared, although he still may miss time. He'll work to be active Sunday against the 49ers, but if he is unable to play, Carl Granderson would likely be the beneficiary of extra opportunities.
Nov 21, 2022
X-rays negative, MRI upcoming
Turner's X-rays on his injured ankle came back negative, and he's now slated to undergo an MRI on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner departed during the first half of Sunday's 27-20 win over the Rams with an ankle injury, and he ultimately failed to return for the remainder of the afternoon. While X-rays revealed no fractures, the hope now is that the 23-year-old is just dealing with an ankle sprain, per Rapoport. If Turner misses any time, Carl Granderson would be slated for additional defensive end reps behind starter Marcus Davenport, who's missed both of the Saints' last two games due to a calf issue.
Nov 20, 2022
Downgraded to out
Turner (ankle) will not return to Sunday's matchup against the Rams, Terrin Waack of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Tuner recorded one tackle for loss before exiting during the first half of Sunday's contest. While the nature and severity of this ankle issue are still unknown, the 23-year-old will have a full week to recover before the Saints' next game Sunday, Nov. 27 against the 49ers.
Nov 20, 2022
Exits with ankle injury
Turner (ankle) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Rams, John DeShazier of the Saints' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The 2021 first-round pick has recorded 12 tackles and two sacks since returning from a chest injury Week 8, and he was likely set to step up into a bigger role with starting defensive ends Cameron Jordan (eye) and Marcus Davenport (calf) both ruled inactive Sunday. With Turner now out for the time being, expect Carl Granderson, Tanoh Kpassagnon and Jabari Zuniga to play prominent roles against the Rams' depleted offensive line.
Oct 26, 2022
Full go at practice Wednesday
Turner (chest) was a full participant during Wednesday's practice, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner missed three straight games due to a chest injury, but it appears he's on track to return in Week 8. If available, the second year defensive end figures to garner a solid rotational role along New Orleans' defensive line.
Oct 20, 2022
Listed as inactive
Turner (chest) is inactive for Thursday's contest against the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
It's not surprising Turner will miss his second consecutive game as he has yet to return to practice after injuring his chest. With the 23-year-old sidelined, Tanoh Kpassagnon and Carl Grandson could play a bigger role behind Marcus Davenport and Cameron Jordan.
Oct 17, 2022
Making progress
Turner (chest) was a limited participant on the Saints' estimated practice report Monday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner sat out Sunday's loss to the Bengals after being unable to practice all week. Even if just an estimate, a limited showing in practice would be a step in the right direction for the second-year-pro. Turner will work to keep the progress going and suit up Thursday against the Cardinals.
Oct 14, 2022
Unavailable Sunday
Turner (chest) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner was unable to return to practice this week, and he'll be kept off the field for a second consecutive game. The 23-year-old's next chance to suit up will be Thursday against Arizona.
Oct 7, 2022
Out with chest injury
Turner (chest) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Seahawks, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner didn't practice all week, so his lack of availability for Sunday's contest isn't surprising. He's garnered a modest reserve role this season, so in his absence, Tanoh Kpassagnon and Carl Granderson could see a few extra snaps behind Marcus Davenport and Cameron Jordan.
Jun 29, 2022
Cleared for camp
Turner (shoulder) has been cleared to participate in training camp, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner suffered a season-ending shoulder injury that required surgery in Week 9 against the Falcons. The Saints' first round selection from a year ago only appeared in five games, recording 12 tackles and a sack. He'll work to build off his limited rookie season and be an important piece on the Saints defensive line in 2022.
May 12, 2022
Regular at practice facility
Turner (shoulder) has been a regular at the Saints' practice facility during the voluntary portion of the offseason program, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.
ANALYSIS
It's not clear where Turner is at in his recovery from an unspecified shoulder injury that ended his rookie season after five game appearances. However, it sounds like he has been active in his rehab, and Turner did not have any noticeable protective brace on his shoulder at a recent Saints charity event. When healthy, the 2021 first-round pick is expected to be one of the first defensive ends in the rotation behind Cameron Jordan and Marcus Davenport.
Nov 11, 2021
Placed on IR
Turner (calf) was placed on injured reserve Thursday, Amie Just of The New Orleans Advocate reports.
ANALYSIS
The 22-year-old had missed the Saints' last two contests prior to being placed on IR Thursday. He will now miss at least three weeks before being eligible for activation. In five games this season, Turner has 12 tackles including a sack.
Nov 6, 2021
Considered questionable
Turner (calf) is listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's tilt against the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Turner is looking to return from a two-game absence. He was a limited participant at practice all week and looking like a true game-time decision. He will be expected to provide depth on the edges should he ultimately get the green light.
Oct 30, 2021
Set to miss second-straight
Turner (calf) has been ruled out of Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Turner missed Week 7 and was unable to practice at all during the week. Marcus Davenport saw most of the extra snaps against Seattle and will likely do so again.
Oct 23, 2021
Ruled out for Week 7
Turner (calf) has been ruled out for Monday's contest against the Seahawks, John Boyle of the Seahawks' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
After practicing fully Thursday, Turner didn't practice at all Friday or Saturday, so his status for Monday shouldn't be a surprise. In his absence, Jalyn Holmes may see increased snaps in a reserve role behind Tanoh Kpassagnon.
Sep 21, 2021
Records first sack of career
Turner logged five tackles (four solo) and one sack during Sunday's 26-7 loss to the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
Turner didn't log a snap during the Saints' season opener, but he saw 29 defensive snaps in Week 2 with Marcus Davenport (shoulder) sidelined. The rookie first-round pick was one of the lone bright spots for the Saints' defense Sunday as he recorded his first career sack. He will likely garner similar playing time for the remainder of Davenport's IR stint.