What was hinted at and speculated on earlier this evening (and really, expected for a few weeks) is now confirmed: Wes Welker will not play in Thursday nights preseason exhibition with the Saints.
When all the Patriots' pass catchers came onto the field for pregame warm-ups, Walker (and Torry Holy) were absent.
Additionally, in an interview with 98.5 The Sports Hub just minutes ago, Bill Belichick said that Welker will not play against the Saints.