Saints’ Unger expected back for preseason after operation

The New Orleans Saints expect center Max Unger, who recently underwent foot surgery, to be ready to play in Week 3 of the preseason.

Reports had speculating that Unger, 31, would miss start of the regular season, but coach Sean Payton said otherwise Saturday.

Unger has been dealing with the same foot injury that caused him to miss the Saints’ Week 14 game against Tampa Bay last season.

■ Texans: Offensive tackle Derek Newton, 29, who suffered torn patellar tendons in both knees last season, will miss the 2017 season after being placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform list.

■ Browns: Rookie cornerback Howard Wilson, a fourth-round draft pick, suffered a fractured kneecap at rookie minicamp and is expected to miss the 2017 season.