Saints WR Thomas back at practice
METAIRIE, La. — Saints top receiver Michael Thomas returned to practice on Wednesday for the first time since injuring his ankle in New Orleans’ season-opening victory over Tampa Bay on Sept. 13.
The Saints, who visit Detroit on Sunday, have lost both games Thomas has missed, falling to 1-2 and into second place in the NFC South Division.
While Saints coach Sean Payton has yet to say if Thomas is on schedule to play in Week 4, the fifth-year receiver ran through drills with a noticeable bounce in his step during the brief portion of practice open to media.
The NFL is threatening teams with possible suspensions for sideline personnel, including coaches, who do not properly wear face coverings during the pandemic. Forfeiting draft picks also could be among disciplinary measures for failing to comply with league/players’ union protocols.
Rookie edge rusher Chase Young could miss Washington’s game Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, and perhaps more, after suffering a groin injury in a Week 3 loss at Cleveland. Young, the No. 2 overall pick, did not practice Wednesday.
The San Francisco 49ers began a second straight week of practice with Nick Mullens at quarterback in place of injured starter Jimmy Garoppolo.
Las Vegas Raiders coach Jon Gruden said several of his players made a mistake when they didn’t wear masks or practice social distancing during a charity event that violated league and local COVID-19 rules. About 10 players attended the fundraising event held Monday night by teammate Darren Waller’s foundation to raise money intended to help young people overcome drug and alcohol addiction.
Miami Dolphins rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa did not practice on Wednesday due to an illness coach Brian Flores stressed is not related to COVID-19.
New York Jets wide receiver Breshad Perriman will be sidelined a second straight game because of a sprained left ankle.
The Denver Broncos signed free agent defensive lineman Timmy Jernigan on Wednesday after placing five-time Pro Bowler Jurrell Casey on injured reserve along with tackle Elijah Wilkinson and linebacker Austin Calitro.