Report: Brees could return for Week 14

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees' 11 fractured ribs and collapsed lung appear to be progressing quickly.

Brees is reportedly tracking to play as early as Week 14 after being recently spotted throwing passes in practice, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The 41-year-old's status for next Sunday's contest against the Philadelphia Eagles is not guaranteed and Taysom Hill's performance could factor into the Saints' decision, Schefter adds.

A dominant showing from Hill on Sunday could lead New Orleans to keep its veteran signal-caller safe, while a poor outing could cause Brees to reemerge.

Hill is 2-0 as a starter in place of the injured Purdue product, rushing for four touchdowns while also throwing 311 yards over the last two games.

The Saints placed Brees on injured reserve on Nov. 20 and the quarterback was hopeful his injury wouldn't keep him sidelined for more than three games. The field general has completed a league-leading 73.5-percent of his passes this year for 18 touchdowns with just three interceptions.

New Orleans is currently sitting atop the NFC with a 9-2 record, but the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks are hot on their heels.

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