QB Mac Jones seen limping during Patriots practice

Patriots quarterback Mac Jones appeared to be walking with a limp during practice on Wednesday as he attempts to work his way back from a left ankle sprain.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick hasn't given out much information on Jones' status ahead of Sunday's game against the Lions, though the second-year quarterback was moving around more than he was in practice late last week.

Jones missed the Patriots' Week 4 game against the Packers after suffering what was described as a "pretty severe" high-ankle sprain in Week 3. 

Despite taking on more work in practice this week, Jones faces an uphill battle to return on Sunday if he remains hobbled. NFL Network's Mike Giardi reported Wednesday that "there remains a fair bit of instability" in Jones' left ankle.

QB Brian Hoyer wasn't present at practice, according to reports, after he suffered a concussion in New England's loss to the Packers. If Jones and Hoyer aren't ready to return this weekend, third-string quarterback Bailey Zappe would make his first NFL start against the Lions. Zappe was 10-of-15 for 99 yards and a touchdown in relief of Hoyer in Green Bay.

The Patriots added QB Garrett Gilbert to their practice squad as insurance this week.