Richie James: Everything you need to know

James remains on injured reserve but had his 21-day practice window opened Wednesday. The Chiefs likely aren't in a rush to activate James after recently acquiring Mecole Hardman from the Jets to serve as a depth wideout and return man.

James will be eligible to practice moving forward, but an official move to activate him from injured reserve will have to follow sometime in the next 21 days before James can suit up for game action. Such a transaction could still happen before Sunday's game against the Dolphins, though Kansas City will likely give James a chance to shake off the rust in practice first, as he last suited up in Week 2. Prior to getting hurt, James had served as Kansas City's primary punt returner while also playing a part-time role on offense.

Despite Reid's encouraging comments, James hasn't yet been designated for return from injured reserve since being deactivated ahead of the Chiefs' Week 3 game against the Bears. Since he hasn't resumed practicing with the team, James can safely be ruled out for Sunday's game in Denver, though a return Week 9 versus Miami could be more realistic if the Chiefs elect to open his 21-day evaluation window.