"Receiver Robert Meachem returned to practice on a limited basis Thursday and said he's determined to play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Safety Darren Sharper (knee) was also back on a limited basis. Tight end Jeremy Shockey (knee) and cornerback Malcolm Jenkins (hamstring) did not participate in the team portion of practice, however.

Shockey declined to discuss his knee injury, saying he got fined the last time he opened up about his health. Coach Sean Payton described it as "more of a knee bruise" and said he's been coming along this week. Shockey did continue to play last week against Arizona after he suffered the injury, so it's likely he'll play this week.

Meachem seemed like more of a long shot earlier this week when he had his ankle in a protective boot. But he was adamant on Thursday that he won't let the ankle injury keep him off the field.

"This is one of the biggest games of your life," Meachem said. "You're gonna play. You're gonna try to do anything you can to play. If you can't play, you really are hurt.""