Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker returned to practice Thursday as the team continued preparations for its Week 4 matchup against the Detroit Lions. The 24-year-old was a limited participant while dealing with a quadriceps injury he suffered during Carolina's 21-18 Week 3 loss to the Cleveland Browns.

Cokee left the game against the Browns in the third quarter after recording two receptions for 18 yards. He was estimated as a non-participant during Wednesday's walkthrough, making Thursday's limited session an upgrade in his practice status.

Coker's availability could be significant because wide receiver Xavier Legette remained out Thursday with a knee injury. The Panthers could therefore be thin at the position if Coker is unable to play versus the Lions.

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Coker was one of five Carolina players whose participation improved from Wednesday. Right tackle Monroe Freeling, who is recovering from a concussion, also moved to limited participation. He will need to clear the concussion protocol before he can play Sunday. Running back Chuba Hubbard, outside linebacker Princely Umanmielen and tight end Darren Waller all progressed to full participation.

Quarterback Bryce Young, safety Nick Scott and linebacker Devin Lloyd also completed full practices. Scott and Lloyd are returning after missing last week’s game, while Umanmielen no longer has a participation concern after logging a full session.

Meanwhile, guard Damien Lewis remained out with an elbow injury, and Legette also did not practice. Lewis is expected to miss multiple weeks with his UCL injury, with Corey Bullock expected to replace him.