Lions receiver Quintez Cephus returns to practice

Allen Park — Detroit Lions receiver Quintez Cephus, who has been on injured reserve since early October, became the latest player to return to practice for the team.

A fifth-round draft pick in 2020, Cephus has appeared in 22 games for the Lions across three seasons. He was in the midst of a mini-breakout during the 2021 campaign, catching 15 passes for 202 yards through the first five weeks, prior to suffering a season-ending collarbone injury.

He began this season buried on the depth chart, logging just 51 snaps on offense before a foot injury put him on the shelf. By returning to practice on Wednesday, the team will have three weeks before they are required to either add him to the active roster or keep him on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.

Cephus is the latest player to return to practice as Detroit nears full strength. The team recently activated rookie receiver Jameson Williams and defensive end Romeo Okwara off injured lists.

Injury report

Eight Detroit players sat out Wednesday's practice, including five who started last Sunday's game against Jacksonville.

Offensive tackle Taylor Decker (elbow), center Frank Ragnow (foot), guard Kayode Awosika (ankle), safety DeShon Elliott (ankle), cornerback Jeff Okudah (illness), wide receiver Kalif Raymond (illness), linebacker Derrick Barnes (knee) and backup quarterback Nate Sudfeld (illness) missed the session.

On a positive note, offensive lineman Evan Brown (ankle) returned in a limited capacity. He's missed the past two games. Running back D'Andre Swift (ankle) was also limited.

jdrogers@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @Justin_Rogers