QB Drew Brees has a torn ligament in his throwing thumb and he’s going to require surgery, sources say. The timeframe depends on the surgery, but he’s likely out 6 weeks. That’s the initial estimate.

Related players: Teddy Bridgewater

Brees was struggling on the sideline. A video showed him trying to grab and ball and immediately just dropping it to the ground and walking away. Bridgewater was made the highest paid backup, so he should be the starter with Brees out. It's still a bit of a blow to the offense overall, but Bridgewater, with a full week of practice, should also be improved heading into Week 3 at Seattle.

The schedule isn't a great one for Bridgewater and the Saints though. Week 4 is home vs. Dallas, Week 5 is home vs. Tampa Bay then at Jacksonville for Week 6 and at Chicago Week 7 before hosting the Cards in Week 8. The Saints then have a bye in Week 9 meaning we could see Brees again bye Week 10, giving him seven weeks to recover.

Saints QB Drew Brees, who visited a specialist following his team’s loss to the Rams, is believed to have a ligament issue on his throwing thumb, per Tom Pelissero and me.

Related players: Teddy Bridgewater, Taysom Hill

If the Saints decide to share the information, we could know more today, but HC Sean Payton said we'd know more in two days on Sunday after the game. Either way, it seems as if Brees is going to miss some time, according to Rapoport, meaning Bridgewater is likely under center. Sunday's FOX broadcast pointed out how Payton compared Hill to Steve Young, an NFL Hall of Fame member, so perhaps it's possible Hill gets time under center if Bridgewater struggles. For now consider it a downgrade for the Saints offense, which could rely more on the run game going forward.

Big tests ahead for Drew Brees.

Related players: Teddy Bridgewater

Rapoport retweeted Omaz Ruiz from the NFL Network. Ruiz said HC Sean Payton commented Brees was feeling pain but wouldn't comment much more. Brees will go through every test possible on his thumb, of course, but Payton added he expects an update in two days. Brees owners should start coming up with another plan at this point, as it seems possible Brees is going to miss time. Bridgewater is expected to take over.

QB Teddy Bridgewater has replaced the injured Drew Brees, who is on the sidelines with his thumb wrapped.

This is a huge, developing story. Brees looked like he injured the thumb following through on a pass against the Rams. He hasn't been ruled out yet, but is questionable to return.