Vilma Practices with Saints

Jonathan Vilma's return to the New Orleans Saints was met with applause from his teammates.

Vilma practiced for the first time this season today as he tries to get ready to play against Tampa Bay this Sunday.

It could be the only chance he gets.

Chances are his bounty suspension has a good chance of being reinstated within the next week.

Vilma had several offseason procedures done on his left knee, but he was able to practice today without a brace.  He was sidelined for five games because of the knee a year ago.  He did not work with the first team today.

The latest appeal hearing is scheduled for Tuesday of next week.