Sean Payton on Drew Brees starting vs. Chiefs: 'See how this week goes'

The New Orleans Saints are coming off a surprising loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, and now face their toughest test of the season this Sunday with a matchup with the 12-1 Kansas City Chiefs. Could Drew Brees return from injury to help the Saints stay in the hunt for the No. 1 seed in the NFC? Head coach Sean Payton says the team will have to "see how this week goes" as the veteran quarterback was designated to return to practice on Wednesday.

"It's pretty simple. It's just functionality, strength, throwing without soreness," Payton said. "I mean, there's a process, and last week with the trainers he had one throwing day, then yesterday the same way. So it's really [whether Brees is] asymptomatic, feeling good, strong and like he can function and be an asset and play well."

Brees has been out since Week 10 after suffering multiple broken ribs and a collapsed lung, forcing the Saints to place him on injured reserve. Backup quarterback Taysom Hill has started the last four games for the Saints in Brees' place, going 3-1, but he struggled to lead a comeback against the Eagles, causing some to wonder if New Orleans should be considered a real contender with Hill under center. The Saints will need some offensive firepower against the Chiefs, who have one of the most potent offensive attacks in the league.

The Saints are currently tied with the Packers for the best record in the NFC but Green Bay currently holds the no. 1 seed. If New Orleans loses to the Chiefs, the team will have a difficult time earning a bye in the postseason.