You can add Renaldo Wynns name to the list of New Orleans Saints backups who have stepped to the forefront following a recent spate of injuries on both sides of the ball. Center Jonathan Goodwin, defensive end Josh Cooper, linebackers Troy Evans and Brian Simmons, and cornerback Jason Craft are among the other players who have made smooth transitions from supporting cast to more prominent roles during the Saints four-game winning streak. Its similar to what happened last season for the Saints en route to a 10-6 record and the NFC South title. Reserve after reserve pitched in and helped when players went down with injuries ensuring the team wouldnt miss a beat. In Sundays 41-24 blowout of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Wynn showed his versatility as he filled in admirably at defensive tackle and end in seeing his most action since joining the Saints on Sept. 10. Wynn, an 11-year veteran who played for the Jaguars and Washington Redskins before signing with the Saints, figured hed be called on with defensive tackle Brian Young inactive because of a knee injury and defensive end Charles Grant hobbled by a sprained ankle. Wynn worked his way into the rotation employed by defensive line coach Marion Hobby and came up with 1 sacks among his two tackles. He also helped hold the Jaguars to 88 rushing yards on 23 carries, drawing praise from coach Sean Payton. Renaldo did a good job, Payton said. Hes one of those guys we talked about Goodwin and Renaldo Wynn, Cooper and Brian Simmons these guys played a lot. You dont know how the season unfolds and when its going to happen, but youre going to need those other guys to step up, he said. Last year, it was Terrance Copper and some others. You know, they did a good job. Wynn will likely be asked to play even more in the next few weeks. Young underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Wednesday and will be out indefinitely, while Grant will miss Sundays game with the St. Louis Rams because a sprained right ankle that limited his snaps last week. At this point in his career, where he lines up doesnt matter to Wynn. link
Redskins could sure use him right about now. I remember when the Redskins cut him there was a quote saying "the Redskins lost a good player, and a better man."
I'm not so sure we are missing him but I'm glad he's doing well, he's a stand up guy who gives great effort and has excellent leadership skills.