Shockey, Colston both practice, could be ready for Sunday

Oct 9, 2008 - 8:08 PM METAIRIE, Louisiana (Ticker) -- The New Orleans Saints' receiving corps could receive a boost sooner than expected.

Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey and receiver Marques Colston both practiced Thursday on a limited basis and could be ready to play this Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.

"I'm more optimistic. I was pleased with what I saw today and I saw more than I expected to see," New Orleans coach Sean Payton said. "Both of them actually took reps and moved around well.

"We'll see tomorrow how they feel, especially when it comes to Jeremy. But Marques looked good."

Colston has been sidelined since the season opener with a thumb injury, while Shockey is recovering from sports hernia surgery.

The Saints have struggled without Colston, losing three of their previous four contests since losing their No. 1 receiver.

New Orleans' No. 2 wideout, David Patten, missed Thursday's practice. Like Shockey, Patten has been sidelined the last two games.