Coach Sean Payton confirmed Friday that he plans for Brees (ribs) to start Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

EDGE Analysis

Payton sounded far less optimistic earlier this week, saying Wednesday that the 41-year-old quarterback had a "a ways to go" before he could be activated from injured reserve. Since he's still on IR, Brees won't be listed on the Saints' weekly injury report, but his return to the starting lineup will essentially be locked in once New Orleans activates him later Friday or Saturday.