NFL Rumors: Drew Brees Ready But Saints Apprehensive Heading Into Week 8

Heading into Week 8, the New Orleans Saints need to make a tough decision. Drew Brees is reportedly back in practice although he admits he is not yet at 100-percent. They face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, Oct. 27 starting at 1:00 p.m. ET at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

With Brees still not at full health, head coach Sean Payton admits that it will be a game-time decision, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN tweeted. It is possible that the Saints may want to stick it out with Terry Bridgewater first since he is doing a great job. Since taking over from the 40-year-old quarterback, New Orleans is 5-0. From that feat alone, it may make no sense for the Saints to change their play-caller.

Saints coach Sean Payton said he may take until Sunday to decide whether Drew Brees plays against the Cardinals.
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) October 23, 2019

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However, runs can end at any point in the NFL. And while the 3-1 Cardinals entered the 2019-20 season with low expectations. picking up another win is essential. For Brees, playing with a less-than-healthy thumb could be detrimental. Besides, oddsmakers feel that the Saints will come out on top - meaning it would be best to choose wisely before game time.

Brees has missed the past five games for the Saints after suffering a torn ligament in his thumb. During Wednesday practice, he did show that he could throw the ball. However, he admitted that he was not at 100-percent but getting closer, Nola.com reported.

"I'll tell (coach Sean Payton) if I'm ready and he'll believe me," Brees said.

Hence, Payton is placed in a corner. Will he allow his regular starting quarterback resume his old role? Or will he stick to Bridgewater who is behind the 5-0 streak since taking over from Brees? Also worth considering is that the future NFL Hall of Famer will have to adjust when making throws. He will be sporting a brace, yet another point Payton will have to consider. Will he be as effective?

"Obviously having something on your thumb that's taped onto your thumb at first, it's not the most comfortable thing or a normal feeling thing, but I just have to make it the norm," said Brees.