Jonas Sanker Returns Fumble for Saints Touchdown Against Vikings

New Orleans Saints safety Jonas Sanker changed the game against the Minnesota Vikings with an 87-yard fumble return touchdown, helping the Saints tie the matchup 13-13 after a defensive turnover shifted momentum.

According to NBC Sports, Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray connected with Myles Price on a swing pass on third-and-15 from the New Orleans 19-yard line before Martin Emerson forced the fumble.

The loose ball was recovered by Sanker, who returned it 87 yards for a touchdown, according to NBC Sports and Yahoo Sports. The extra point attempt by Daniel Carlson missed wide left, leaving the score tied.

Yahoo Sports reported that the play was created when linebacker Pete Werner and backup cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. collided with Price and forced the ball free. Sanker was positioned to make the recovery.

The 87-yard return became the second-longest fumble return in Saints franchise history, according to Yahoo Sports and Saints Wire. Keith Mitchell holds the team record with a 90-yard fumble return in 2000.

Sanker’s defensive score helped keep New Orleans competitive as the offense struggled. NBC Sports reported the Saints had seven first downs late in the third quarter, while Tyler Shough was 10-of-14 passing for 57 yards with an interception.