Bush, Colston, Shockey expected to play

Oct 17, 2008 - 6:35 PM METAIRIE, Louisiana (Ticker) -- The New Orleans Saints look like they will be quite healthy for Sunday's NFC South showdown against the Carolina Panthers.

Wide receiver Marques Colston, tight end Jeremy Shockey and running back Reggie Bush all practiced Friday and are expected to play this weekend.

The return of Colston, who has not played since the season opener due to a thumb injury, would be the biggest addition. The Pro Bowler has caught 168 passes for 2,240 yards and 19 touchdowns.

Shockey would return to the lineup after missing the last three games with a sports hernia. The brash Shockey has caught 16 passes for 151 yards in three contests this season.

Bush, who has been limited in practice this week, has been experiencing swelling and soreness in his left knee throughout the season. However, the former Heisman Trophy winner is off to a big start, accounting for a league-leading eight touchdowns in six games.

New Orleans (3-3) enters Sunday's game in last place, but just one game back of Carolina (4-2), Atlanta (4-2) and Tampa Bay (4-2).