New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees says he's "pretty confident" he'll play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. He practiced on a limited basis, but did not throw the football as he deals with a bruised right rotator cuff.

"I have every intention of playing, but I do have to take it day to day, and I have to be smart with this. So that's what I'm doing," said Brees earlier today when meeting with the media.

Also practicing on a limited basis for New Orleans was safety Jairus Byrd (knee) and cornerback Keenan Lewis (hip). Both took part in the early portion of practice open to the media, but neither took part in team drills.

Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (toe) was limited in team drills.

Starting wide receiver Brandin Cooks (ankle) and starting guard Jahri Evans (knee) both missed practice. The severity of both injuries is currently unknown to the media and fanbase.

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