by Niles Carpenter/Saints Contributor

In preparation for their Week 1 showdown against the Tennessee Titans, the New Orleans Saints faced a mixed bag of injury news on Thursday. Notably, star cornerback Marshon Lattimore, dealing with a knee issue, provided a sigh of relief for Saints fans as he participated fully in Thursday’s practice session. Lattimore, a four-time Pro Bowler, is expected to play a pivotal role in the Saints’ defense as they aim to contain the dynamic duo of DeAndre Hopkins and Treylon Burks.

However, the same can’t be said for rookie running back Kendre Miller, who continued to nurse a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined during Thursday’s practice. While Miller did make an appearance on the practice field before the team stretch, his limited activity raises concerns about his availability for Sunday’s game against the Titans. With star running back Alvin Kamara serving a suspension for the first three games of the season, the Saints are exploring their options, with Jamaal Williams set to lead the backfield and several other candidates waiting in the wings.

In other Saints news, veteran tight end Jimmy Graham received some welcome legal clarity as the Orange County District Attorney’s Office decided not to pursue criminal charges related to his arrest in Southern California before a preseason game in August. The incident was initially marred by allegations of substance use and resisting arrest, but subsequent reports indicated that Graham had experienced a medical episode, likely a seizure, leading to his disoriented state. The resolution of this legal matter allows Graham to focus on his return to the Saints, where he previously enjoyed a successful stint before his NFL journey took him to various teams, ultimately leading him back to New Orleans this offseason.