The New Orleans Saints activated defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list earlier this week, allowing him to practice with the team for the first time since his Achilles injury back in January. Rankins didn’t know that he’d be practicing until he showed up for work at the team practice facility, when the head athletic trainer pulled him aside for an update on his treatment plan. While he was overjoyed to join his teammates on the practice field, he wasn’t exactly surprised to learn the latest step in his recovery.
When asked how long he’s been running full-speed in conditioning drills, Rankins revealed that he’s already made significant progress in his return to football.