The New Orleans Saints received a big boost during practice on Monday, when they were joined by a very welcome addition: defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins. Rankins had been sidelined ever since rupturing his Achilles tendon in the Saints’ playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles back in January, but team medical staff cleared him to practice for the first time in eight months. New Orleans activated him from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, allowing him to gradually work his way back into full participation. While it’s unlikely Rankins will be ready to suit up for the Saints’ season-opener, his ahead-of-schedule return is highly encouraging.