Odds are the season ended for many Pierre Thomas owners last week. And now that the fantasy playoffs are here, so is Thomas. Great timing. Thomas was a full participant during Saints practice all week and seems to have recovered from his ankle injury, which has made him inactive on game days since week four. Thomas is listed as probable on the official injury report. When asked if Thomas will play against the St. Louis Rams, head coach Sean Payton said "I think so. He's had a good week of practice. He's ready. He'll be part of the plan." When asked about Thomas' workload, Payton succinctly said "We'll be smart."

Fantasy Analysis:

Earlier in the week, Payton was adamant that Thomas' return wouldn't lessen Chris Ivory 's snap count. Now we'll see if he will stick to his word. I think not. Ivory has scored five touchdowns in the past three games and ran for 117 yards last week at Cincinnati. But I'm sure Payton will want to work Ivory, Thomas, Reggie Bush and Julius Jones all onto the field. I could be wrong, and excuse the double negative, but I don't how this situation doesn't become a full-blown running-back-by-committee. For this week, leave Thomas on your bench. Ivory is the smartest fantasy play, but only as a flex.