Terry McLaurin is nearing his return after working out before the Broncos game

The Washington Commanders (3-8) will host the Denver Broncos (9-2) on Sunday Night Football, a matchup that could see wide receiver Terry McLaurin back for the first time since then re-injured his quad in Washington’s 28-7 Week 8 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Washington originally stated McLaurin as a limited participant on Wednesday’s injury reportbut the team upgraded it to full participant during Thursday’s practice, his first full session since the Week 8 injury. The development suggests the 30-year-old is likely to return against Denver, although his official game status won’t be confirmed until 90 minutes before kickoff. He’s already missed eight games, and in the four games he’s played, McLaurin has 13 receptions for 203 yards and one touchdown, including three catches for 54 yards and a score in his last game against Kansas City.

In addition to McLaurin, Noah Brown also practiced fully for the first time since suffering a groin injury in Week 2. However, the team must activate Brown from injured reserve by Saturday afternoon in order to play Sunday. Other receivers on the injury report are Treilon Burks (limited, finger surgery), Jailin Lane (limited, hip) and Chris Moore (full, shoulder).

Quarterback Jaden Daniels likely won’t play because of a dislocated elbow, despite practicing without a brace on his non-throwing arm. Defensive end Drake Jackson, who is recovering from a patellar tendon injury in 2023, practiced in a limited capacity in Thursday’s practice and is unlikely to make his debut this week. Linebacker Frankie Luvu (shoulder) and safety Ale Kaho (concussion) also remain on limited practice.

The Commanders, third in the NFC East, are trying to snap a six-game losing streak. Washington’s offense ranks 17th in total yards per game (330.2), 24th in passing (191.6) and 5th in rushing (138.5), while its defense ranks 31st overall, allowing 387 yards and 26.9 points per game.

A win would improve Washington’s record against the AFC West to 3-1, which would match their best performance against the division since 1986. Historically, the Commanders are 4-2 at home against Denver and 18-20 overall after a bye week.