Report: Thomas, Brees expected to play on SNF vs. Bucs

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas is expected to return from a six-game absence Sunday night against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a source told ESPN's Dianna Russini.

Drew Brees is also reportedly set to play in the pivotal NFC South showdown after being limited in practice this week with a right shoulder injury.

Thomas hasn't played since suffering a high ankle sprain in New Orleans' season opener.

The star wideout's return was postponed after a reported altercation with a teammate led to disciplinary measures. He then suffered a hamstring injury ahead of last week's win against the Carolina Panthers.

While New Orleans has stayed in contention in the NFC without Thomas, the passing attack has relied heavily on Alvin Kamara. He's on pace to break both the single-season record for receiving yards (1,098) and catches (119) by a running back.

Kamara is dealing with a foot injury but said Wednesday he expects to play against Tampa Bay.

The 5-2 Saints won the first matchup between the two teams in Week 1. However, they sit second in the NFC South behind the 6-2 Bucs.