Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty returned to practice Wednesday, boosting hopes he can play in Sunday's season opener against the Miami Dolphins. Jeanty had been sidelined since Aug. 23 with an ankle injury sustained during training camp when he landed awkwardly on the turf after diving for a pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Coach Klint Kubiak had remained quiet on Jeanty's status, but recently expressed optimism about the second-year back's availability. General manager John Spytek also hinted that Jeanty could return sooner than expected. If Jeanty plays, it would provide a significant lift to the Raiders' offense, especially with tight end Brock Bowers expected to miss time after undergoing a meniscus trim Tuesday.

The Raiders plan to feature a strong running game this season, relying on a one-two punch of Jeanty and rookie Mike Washington Jr. Washington, a fourth-round pick, impressed during the preseason with 168 rushing yards on 23 carries (7.3 yards per attempt), including four runs of 10-plus yards. Jeanty, who totaled 1,321 yards from scrimmage and 975 rushing yards as a rookie, aims to build on that production despite an unstable offensive line.