Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis returned to practice on Wednesday, raising hopes he could yet make a comeback this season after tearing a muscle in his arm.
Lewis was initially expected to be out of action until next year because of a torn triceps he suffered two months ago that needed surgery.
The 37-year-old remains on the team's injured reserve-designation list but said he was on the mend and ready to resume training.
"I'm making progress and will practice some today," he said in a statement.
Lewis gave no indication about when he might return, saying only that he was focusing on helping the Ravens (9-3), who currently lead the AFC North division.
"The story shouldn't be about me right now. We're playing the Redskins Sunday and I am not eligible to play," Lewis said.
"If I can help prepare my team in some way for that game, I will. When I know I will play in a game, or when I play in game, I will say more then."