METAIRIE, La. – C. J. Spiller, the high-profile offseason acquisition who missed most of training camp with a knee injury, was back on the practice field Wednesday, though in limited action.

Spiller’s return could be a big boost to the team, which struggled in the running game Sunday. Spiller could also be a good option for Brees out of the backfield.

In addition to Spiller, three other players were on the injury report, though none of them took part in practice.

CB Keenan Lewis (hip), safety Jairus Byrd (knee) and linebacker Dannell Ellerbee (toe) all did not practice.

Payton hinted Monday that Byrd could be back sooner than later. The team could use some help at safety after the loss of Rafael Bush for the season.