Titans designate Henry to return from IR

Derrick Henry is set to take another big step toward a return.

The Tennessee Titans designated the running back for return from injured reserve Wednesday, clearing his way to practice again.

He's still a long shot to play in the Week 18 finale against the Houston Texans, sources told ESPN's Dianna Russini.

Tennessee placed Henry on injured reserve in early November after he underwent foot surgery. The team now has 21 days to activate him.

The Titans have remained hopeful that the star back could return for a playoff run since he was sidelined. Henry ranked first in the NFL with 937 rushing yards prior to his injury.

The 28-year-old Henry would be the latest addition to a surging Titans side. Wide receiver A.J. Brown returned from IR in Week 16 while Julio Jones was activated off the COVID-19 list Monday.

In the driver's seat for the AFC's No. 1 seed, the 11-5 Titans could lock up a first-round bye and home-field advantage for the postseason with a win in Week 18.