Brees to have MRI, X-ray after injuring ribs in win over 49ers

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees will have an MRI and X-Ray after suffering a rib injury during Sunday's 27-13 win over the San Francisco 49ers, head coach Sean Payton announced, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football.

The Saints played the entire second half against the 49ers with Jameis Winston at quarterback, while the team listed Brees as questionable.

The veteran signal-caller completed 8 of 13 pass attempts for 76 yards and one touchdown before being sidelined at halftime. He was seen on the sidelines with his helmet on but didn't return for the contest.

"I was not going to be able to be effective," Brees said of his injury postgame.

He took a big hit from 49ers defensive lineman Kentavius Street in the first half but remained in the game.

Makes no sense.pic.twitter.com/xLT5vIeBQf

- Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 15, 2020

Brees, who missed five games due to injury last season, has started all nine of the Saints' contests this year. He entered Sunday leading the NFL in pass completion percentage (74) along with 17 passing touchdowns against three interceptions.

He also battled a shoulder ailment during the week which limited him at Friday's practice.

Winston joined the Saints this offseason after spending the previous five campaigns with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 26-year-old attempted his first pass with New Orleans in Week 9 late in the fourth quarter with his team up big against Tampa Bay.

The former first overall pick completed 6-for-10 passes for 63 yards in his relief appearance against San Francisco. The Saints defense allowed just three points in the final two quarters versus the 49ers.

New Orleans' quarterback depth chart also features Taysom Hill, who has mostly contributed as a runner. The versatile playmaker racked up 45 yards on eight carries Sunday.

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