Although he remains on schedule and has been practicing in training camp, Wes Welker is not expected to play Thursday night when the Patriots host the Saints in a preseason exhibition at Gillette Stadium.
Speaking after the day's Patriots Hall of Fame ceremonies, owner Robert Kraft hinted at Welker's availability, saying, "Dont be disappointed if Wes Welker doesn't play tonight."
He added that Welker will "be on the field when the time is right."