New Orleans, LA -- (Sports Network) - New Orleans tight end Jeremy Shockey and star wide receiver Marques Colston appear close to returning to the playing field as each participated in practice during the week.

Shockey, who underwent sports hernia surgery after Week 3, was to miss three- to-six weeks with the injury but took limited reps on Wednesday before sitting out practice on Thursday.

The off-season acquisition from the New York Giants has recorded 16 catches for 151 yards in New Orleans' first three games this season.

Colston, meanwhile, hasn't played since suffering a torn ligament in his left thumb in the season opener. The Hofstra product has been limited at practice on both Wednesday and Thursday, his first action since the injury occurred.

Both Shockey and Colston's status for Sunday against the Raiders remains uncertain.