What happened: A.J. Brown was designated to return from injured reserve Wednesday. The designation opens his practice window and starts the clock toward activation to the active roster.

Why it matters: Availability at receiver thins quickly during an extended absence, raising the stakes of any starter nearing return. His return would restore a proven option in the passing game during the middle stretch of the regular season.

What to watch: Watch practice participation for his workload this week. Activation is the remaining step before he can return to game action.