Colts All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson returns to practice

Colts guard Quenton Nelson has been designated for return. Ditto for rookie defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and wide receiver Dezmon Patmon, who also took to the practice field on Wednesday.

Nelson could potentially play against the 49ers on Sunday night, but that’ll all depend on how his practice sessions go this week. Whenever he returns, it’ll be a big boost to the Colts’ front five.

“[He’s] an elite leader, not just an elite player,” head coach Frank Reich said earlier this month (via ESPN.com).

The multiple-time All-Pro has been sidelined for weeks with a high-ankle sprain, unfamiliar territory for the otherwise healthy lineman. Before this, Nelson hadn’t missed a game through his first three years in the NFL.

Nelson, the sixth-overall pick in the 2018 draft, stands as one of the top offensive guards in the game. Barring any further complications, he’s expected to ink a record-setting extension come next year. In the meantime, he’s focused on the task at hand — helping the Colts gain ground in the AFC South.

After an 0-3 start, the Colts have rallied somewhat to win two of their last three. Now 2-4, the Colts have a chance to close in on the 4-2 Titans.