Saunders (calf) is ruled out for Sunday's regular-season opener against the Panthers, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.
Saunders hasn't practiced in any capacity since injuring his calf in New Orleans' Aug. 25 preseason finale. His next chance to suit up will come Week 2 on the road against the Cowboys. Khristian Boyd and Bryan Bresee will stand to see increased work solidifying the interior defensive line until Saunders is recovered.