Game plan put Saints fullback Austin Johnson on inactive list against Eagles
 

The New Orleans fullback, who was declared inactive for the game against the Eagles, is not battling an injury.

“He was a healthy scratch,” Payton said. “Certainly, having three tight ends allowed us to do that.”

Johnson averaged 13.5 snaps per game in the first five games, but both Hoomanawanui and Josh Hill can play fullback, allowing for a little bit of flexibility in the Saints’ roster on game day.

New Orleans decided to use mostly one-back sets against the Eagles, which led to the decision to leave Johnson inactive.

“Part of it was scheme and what we were doing going into that Philadelphia game with a little bit more one back being featured,” Payton said.

Game plan put Saints fullback Austin Johnson on inactive list against Eagles - Black and Gold