NEW ORLEANS – The Falcons have scratched starting cornerback Asante Samuel for Sunday's season opener against the New Orleans Saints.
Samuel had been listed as questionable with a right thigh injury. He's been replaced in the starting lineup by Robert McClain.
Meanwhile, the Saints deactivate newly re-acquired receiver Robert Meachem and outside linebacker Martez Wilson. Wilson did not play during the preseason because of a dislocated left elbow, but had been practicing with a brace for a couple of weeks and was listed as probable this week.
Healthy scratches by New Orleans include receiver Andy Tanner and running back Khiry Robinson. Safety Isa Abdul-Quddus and rookie defensive end Glenn Foster are out with ankle injuries.
Atlanta's healthy scratches include newly acquired offensive tackle Jeremy Trueblood and reserve right guard Harland Gunn.
___
AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.