BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns welcomed back cornerback Denzel Ward for practice on Friday, raising hopes that he might be ready to play this Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers after experiencing his sixth documented concussion just a week prior.

Ward appears on the injury report as questionable, but he has shown progress throughout the week and has received the approval to resume practicing, which is the last step before he can be fully cleared from the league’s concussion protocol.

The 27-year-old cornerback suffered his injury during the second half of last week’s 29-24 victory over Baltimore. Earlier in the season, Ward mentioned he consulted with a concussion specialist during the offseason alongside family, expressing confidence that he is not jeopardizing his long-term health despite his concussion history.

A standout player and three-time Pro Bowler, Ward has been having an impressive season so far, leading the league with 13 passes defensed, although he has yet to secure his first interception of the year.

In addition to Ward, the Browns also saw left guard Joel Bitonio (foot) and tight end David Njoku (ankle/hand) return to practice after missing time earlier in the week. Both of these Pro Bowl athletes are anticipated to take the field against the Chargers, who stand at 4-3.

However, the Browns (2-6) are dealing with a shortage at linebacker as both Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and Jordan Hicks have been ruled out for the upcoming game.

Owusu-Koramoah, Cleveland’s leading tackler, suffered a neck injury during the third quarter of last week’s game when he collided with Ravens running back Derrick Henry. Following the injury, he was immobilized and transported off the field on a cart, subsequently spending the night at a hospital for observations.

Additionally, linebacker Khaleke Hudson has been added to the injury report due to an ankle issue, further complicating the team’s depth at the position as they prepare for the game ahead.