Alvin Kamara returns to Saints practice

METAIRIE, La. — The New Orleans Saints returned to a full practice on Thursday after committing Wednesday to more of a walkthrough. That means that this attendance report should more greatly reflect the actual participation of the day. The early good news of the week: running back Alvin Kamara is back.

Here is the attendance for the portion of practice open to the media:

Not Seen:

QB Derek Carr (Oblique)

S Will Harris Jr. (Hamstring)

TE Taysom Hill (Rib)

LB Pete Werner (Hamstring)

OL Cesar Ruiz (Knee)

C/G Lucas Patrick (Chest)

Left Early:

WR Rashid Shaheed (Hip) – Left the field as the stretch period began.

Returned:

RB Alvin Kamara (Hip/Hand)

DE Payton Turner (Knee)

Side work:

DE Tanoh Kpassagnon (Achilles)

There was only a quick glimpse of Shaheed as he left the practice field as the stretch period began. He may have just been observing the previous walkthrough, but not well enough to participate just yet. He will be a big name to watch on Friday. Having him ready to go with rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler would be a good setup for the young passer.

Several key pieces remain out, which generates concern particularly along the offensive interior. As of now, no starting interior offensive lineman are looking available for this game. Though that could change on Friday.

LB Willie Gay Jr. was on the field again Thursday, which is massively important with Werner remaining out. Having both Gay Jr. and starter Demario Davis could help with a lot of the middle-of-the-field issues New Orleans experienced against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will most certainly be looking to attack that area on Sunday.