Saints TE Jimmy Graham misses practice with ankle sprain

Tight end Jimmy Graham is still bothered by an ankle sprain and hasn't practiced, making for the possibility he could miss the Tampa Bay game on Sunday. (US Presswire)

New Orleans could be without All-Pro TE Jimmy Graham when they play at Tampa Bay on Sunday.

Even after a week off for the Saints' bye, Graham did not practice Wednesday, still bothered by a sprained ankle he sustained against San Diego on Oct. 7.

Interim coach Aaron Kromer refused to specify whether it was low or high ankle sprain.

“Whatever it is, he was able to run around a little bit today,” Kromer said. “He just didn't practice. He looks good. We'll work him into the week. Any time you have an ankle, you want to slowly work your way back until game day. We know what he can do on the field.”

Graham led the Saints with 99 catches for 1,310 yards and 11 touchdowns last year, his second in the NFL. He had 24 catches through four games this season before getting hurt on a 4-yard reception early against San Diego. Although he returned in the second half, he was used only as a decoy as New Orleans rallied to win 31-24 for it first victory.

“Any time you're down a playmaker, just like last week with (wide receiver) Lance (Moore), we adjust and we manage,” quarterback Drew Brees said. “It just gives an opportunity to other guys.”

The options at tight end are limited. David Thomas, the Saints' top backup, has two catches for 11 yards. Daniel Graham, the No. 3 guy, has not caught a pass.

The news was not all bad for the Saints. Kromer said Moore, who sat out the San Diego game with a hamstring problem, practiced fully on Wednesday. Moore has 19 receptions for 287 yards and two touchdowns.

Follow Saints reporter Guerry Smith on twitter @CBSSaints.