Jordan Howden: Everything you need to know

Howden notched four tackles (three solo) and recovered a fumble that he returned for a touchdown in a 26-14 win over the Giants on Sunday. Howden's touchdown was a game-changer. It came on the first play of the fourth quarter when Cam Skattebo fumbled with New York having driven to the Saints' 12-yard line. The Giants looked like they could be on the verge of the go-ahead score until the fumble, but Howden's TD instead gave New Orleans a 26-14 lead that would hold for the remainder of the contest. It was the first fumble recovery and the first touchdown of any sort in Howden's NFL career.

Howden (oblique) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, John Hendrix of AthlonSports.com reports. Howden was not cleared to play in the Saints' Week 1 loss to the Cardinals due to an oblique injury. The additional rest has paid off, as the 2023 fifth-rounder practiced without limitations Wednesday and is on track to play against the 49ers on Sunday. Howden is coming off a 2024 campaign in which he logged 50 tackles (27 solo) and two interceptions in 17 regular-season games.

Howden (oblique) is inactive for Sunday's tilt versus Arizona. Howden battled an oblique injury throughout the week, though he was able to participate in practice in a limited fashion. Nonetheless, he isn't well enough to take the field for New Orleans' regular-season opener. With Howden out Week 1, rookie Jonas Sanker will be the primary safety depth behind Justin Reid and Julian Blackmon.