Payton Turner: I've been cleared for Saints' training camp

New Orleans Saints defensive end Payton Turner delivered a positive update Wednesday after missing a majority of his rookie season.

"It's been a long road to recovery," Turner wrote on Twitter. "I had a pretty major shoulder surgery last November and didn't have quite the rookie year I wanted but shoutout to everybody that's stayed down with me and helped me get to this point. Blessed to say I've been cleared."

Turner, 24, missed all but five games in his debut season after undergoing a shoulder procedure. The 2021 first-round pick concluded the 2021 campaign on injured reserve.

Turner recorded 12 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack last season.

The Houston product is expected to bolster the Saints defensive line group that is led by Cameron Jordan and Marcus Davenport. New Orleans defense was among the most disruptive units last season tallying 113 QB hits, 88 tackles for loss, and 46 sacks.

The Texas native worked his way to become the 28th overall selection after racking 25 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks in his final collegiate year.

Turner is among several Saints expected to make an impact in 2022 after missing most of last season due to injury. Michael Thomas and Jameis Winston after a couple players who are also expected to make their return in 2022.

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