Report: Saints lose entire RB group to COVID-19 protocols

The entire New Orleans Saints running back group has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers, according to Fox Sports' Jay Glazer.

Star runner Alvin Kamara tested positive for COVID-19 this week.

Tailbacks Latavius Murray, Dwayne Washington, and fullback Michael Burton have all been designated as high-risk close contacts but are expected back soon, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The Saints' running game will now rely on the legs of running back/wide receiver Ty Montgomery. He's recorded just a single carry this season.

Quarterback Taysom Hill could see an increased role Sunday. Hill has rushed for 416 yards and seven touchdowns entering the final week of the regular season.

New Orleans needs a win against the Panthers in Week 17 to have a chance at claiming the NFC's top playoff seed.