One of the NFL's leading dual-threat running backs returned to the practice field on Wednesday afternoon.

Spencer Ware, who ranks third in the NFL among running backs by averaging 117.7 yards from scrimmage per game, missed last week's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars because he hadn't passed concussion protocol derived from a hit suffered the week before against the Indianapolis Colts.

On Wednesday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Ware has passed concussion protocol and will be back on the practice field this week.

"Yeah, he did," Reid confirmed after the morning's walkthrough. "[Ware] did pass."

Ware has carried the ball 102 times for 511 yards with two touchdowns in seven games played so far this season, adding 17 receptions for 313 yards and a touchdown through the air as well.

It's unclear whether or not Ware's return to practice on Wednesday means he'll be playing on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers—a defense that ranks third in the NFL by allowing just 77 yards rushing per game, but it's a good sign.

Reid spoke about the challenge the Panthers defense presents, particularly their front seven.

"You could argue this would be the best defensive line we've played, maybe even the best we'll play this season," Reid explained. "They're a good bunch, man. They get after it—the whole front seven. They take those linebackers and they go.

"(Defensive coordinator) Sean [McDermott] is a phenomenal football coach. He'll be a good head coach someday."

 ---

Reid also mentioned that defensive lineman Jaye Howard (hip flexor strain), receiver Jeremy Maclin (groin strain) and linebacker Tamba Hali (knee) will not practice on Wednesday.

As Reid stated earlier in the week, quarterback Alex Smith is back on the field after missing last week's game against the Jaguars.