Sean Payton has revealed that Jonathan Vilma could return to practice with the team next week.

The New Orleans Saints linebacker was placed on the injured reserve designated to return list before the start of the regular season, having injured his knee during the pre-season.

The head coach told reporters: "He is progressing. We kind of look at it day-to-day, but that Monday coming back would be a potential day we would look at. I am optimistic he is going to be able to.

"It is kind of a bonus day for us. The first full day where you guys will be back will be on that Wednesday. Any time you have that extra day, we typically try to get in a bonus day on Monday.

"Tuesday the players will be off and then we would start up on that Wednesday. I am optimistic that he will get some work on that Monday. He's been doing well, yeah, so we will see. But he has been doing well with his progress."

Vilma had 37 tackles, a sack and an interception during his 11 games for the Saints last season.