Following up on a previous item. ... According to ESPN.com's Mike Triplett, receiver Michael Thomas was not seen on the field for the start of Thursady's practice.

Thomas (hand) and Drew Brees (knee) were limited participants Wednesday, although head coach Sean Payton downplayed Brees' issue earlier today.

In fact, Brees was on the field as Thursday's session began.

I will, of course, follow up as needed.