INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indianapolis Colts are one step closer to getting one of their most important players back on the field.

On Wednesday, head coach Shane Steichen told reporters that cornerback Charvarius Ward Sr. is still in the NFL's concussion protocol, but will practice on Wednesday. He must log at least a limited practice and a full practice before being cleared from the protocol by an independent neurologist.

Ward didn't practice at all last week after reporting concussion symptoms to the Colts last Monday following the team's 33-8 opening-day win over the Miami Dolphins.

Along with Ward, top pass rusher Laiatu Latu also missed last week's game after leaving last Wednesday's practice with a hamstring injury and not practicing on Thursday and Friday. Steichen told reporters that Latu wouldn't practice this Wednesday, but that the team will work him out and then see how he progresses during the week.

In Ward's absence, Colts cornerback Xavien Howard had a rough day against the Denver Broncos, giving up receptions on all eight targets thrown his way, according to Pro Football Focus, and then being dinged for three penalties all on one drive.

The Colts' defense also struggled without Latu on the field, failing to get to Broncos quarterback Bo Nix for any sacks and only pressuring him five times (all just hurries, no hits).

The Colts face the Tennessee Titans this Sunday in Nashville, Tenn. at Nissan Stadium. They feature the last-ranked offense in yards per game (192.5) and are 30th in points per game (15.5).

Jake Arthur has been covering the Indianapolis Colts for over a dozen years and is a member of the PFWA. He's one half of the Locked On Colts podcast and has worked for the Colts' official website, On SI, and more. You can follow him on X @JakeArthurNFL.