WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. -- Drew Brees was back in the saddle -- sort of -- during the New Orleans Saints' afternoon walkthrough on Tuesday.

The daily sessions are literally "walk-throughs" with most players wearing ball caps or visors and no pads. Still, it was the latest sign that Brees is nearing a return from the oblique strain that has sidelined him for the past 11 days.

It still seems highly unlikely that Brees will play in Friday's preseason game against the Tennessee Titans, but he could possibly return a week later if the Saints feel it's worth it for him to get any live-game snaps before the start of the regular season.

Brees took snaps behind center, made adjustments at the line of scrimmage and even soft-tossed a few touchdown passes during Tuesday's afternoon walkthrough.

Earlier Wednesday, Brees dressed in full pads for the first time, though he didn't participate in any drills. Coach Sean Payton said Brees is "progressing well" and each step is a good sign, though the team will remain smart about not risking any setbacks.