Defensive end Takk McKinley, who’s tied for the team lead in sacks with two, returned to practice on Wednesday.

McKinley was injured late in the win over the Panthers in Week 2 and didn’t play against the Saints last week. Quinn announced that he was returning today on his weekly radio spot on 92.9 FM The Game on Wednesday.

“Takk is going to practice some today,” Quinn said.

Devonta Freeman (knee contusion) and Derrick Shelby are improving, but not ready for practice. They will go through walk-throughs.

Also, wide receiver Julio Jones (calf) was not outside during the open portion of practice.

McKinley would put a percentage on his recovery and wouldn’t pronounce himself fit for the next game.

“We’ll see,” McKinley said. “We’ll see”

McKinley looked fine running, in a half sprint, to the stretching drills.

He didn’t like sitting on the Saints game in which the defense gave up 43 points and 534 yards.

“Anytime you’re not on the field, it’s a little frustrating,” McKinley said. “That was my first NFL game that I missed. It was different. I don’t like the feeling. I can’t wait to get back out there and help contribute.”

Subscribe to "The Bow Tie Chronicles" podcast with the AJC's D. Orlando Ledbetter on iTunes or on the new AJC sports podcasts page.

About the Author

Keep Reading

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) passes during practice at NFL football minicamp in Metairie, La., Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (Gerald Herbert/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

UPS driver Dan Partyka delivers an overnight package. As more people buy more goods online, the rapid and unrelenting expansion of e-commerce is causing real challenges for the Sandy-Springs based company. (Bob Andres/AJC 2022)

Credit: TNS