The New Orleans Saints waived rookie linebacker Khairi Fortt today.

The move was surprising for one reason. Fortt was on injured reserve-designated to return. New Orleans could only use that designation on one player this year, placing Fortt on the list before the season began.

Players on the IR-designated to return list do not count against the 53 man active roster.

Other Saints were potentially candidates for the IR-designated to return slot.

Fullback Erik Lorig, who injured his ankle in training camp, has yet to practice or play this season. Saints head coach Sean Payton and Lorig have offered no updates on his injury status.

Time will tell whether a player like Lorig would have been a good candidate for the slot, as players on IR-designated to return are not allowed to return to the practice field until week 6 of the regular season, and aren't eligible to play until week 8.

Fortt injured his leg in week 2 of the preseason. He was drafted by the Saints out of Cal in the 4th round.

Fortt is likely surprised, considering he sent out this tweet last Wednesday.

@KForttress11/twitter
@KForttress11/twitter
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