Cleveland Browns quarterback Jake Delhomme said Thursday that his right ankle has steadily improved and he could return for this weekend's meeting with the Atlanta Falcons after missing three games with the injury.
Delhomme sustained a high ankle sprain during the Sept. 12 season opener. He has been inactive the past three games, but he said he was able to move better during practice Wednesday, and as long as he doesn't have any setbacks, he's hoping to face the Falcons.
"(Jake) did more than he did last Wednesday and felt pretty good this morning, which is positive," Browns coach Eric Mangini said Thursday. "He'll do a little more today and then we'll just keep playing it by ear through the week."
Seneca Wallace has filled in for Delhomme the past three weeks, throwing for 554 yards and three touchdowns with two interceptions.
Delhomme said it will be up to Cleveland's coaches if he plays, but the 35-year-old took snaps with the starting offense during the portion of practice open to reporters Thursday.
"Both guys will be prepared to play Sunday and (we'll) make sure Jake, if he can, is right to take advantage of that opportunity," Mangini said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
