Drew Brees optimistic but uncertain about Week 4 status

Saints quarterback Drew Brees (shoulder) is optimistic but uncertain about his availability for Week 4 against the Cowboys, ESPN.com reports.

Brees, who missed New Orleans' Week 3 loss to Carolina, says his shoulder injury is day to day, but admittedly impacts his "functionality", suggesting some structural impediments exist.

While Brees will surely do everything he can to prepare to play in Week 4, it's too early to tell right now what his status will ultimately be. In Brees' absence, Luke McCown did a commendable job quarterbacking the Saints' offense Sunday, and may be asked to do the same if Brees' shoulder troubles him any longer.