Chris Thompson returns to practice, DeSean Jackson sits out

ASHBURN — Washington Redskins running back Chris Thompson practiced on Wednesday for the first time since tearing the labrum in his left shoulder in Week 13 against the Dallas Cowboys.

Thompson’s limited participation was a sign of progress, but coach Jay Gruden said gauging the running back’s availability for Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills is tough.

Wide receiver DeSean Jackson did not practice after bruising his left knee in last Sunday’s win against the Chicago Bears, which was expected. On Monday, Gruden said Jackson would likely miss “a day or two,” but expects him to play against the Bills.

“I think you saw him finish the game,” Gruden reiterated on Wednesday. “I think that’s a pretty good indication that it’s not as serious as it appears to be, so I feel confident. When guys finish the game on Sunday, usually you feel pretty good about them playing next week. I think that’s the case with DeSean. I think he just needs to get into rehab — get the soreness out a little bit — get to running tomorrow. Then obviously, Friday, he’ll be ready to roll, I hope.”

Left tackle Trent Williams was also limited with an unspecified foot injury, but Gruden said it was not serious.

“He just said his foot hurt,” Gruden said. “I think it’s just a little sore. He’s a big man, he plays very hard and he’s obviously had some wear and tear on that foot. It was more of a rest day.”

Inside linebacker Perry Riley, who had surgery on a broken bone in his right foot two weeks ago, was watching practice but did not participate. Gruden already ruled him out for this week’s game. Defensive end Jason Hatcher also did not participate. Hatcher normally rests on Wednesdays and is also dealing with a pinched nerve in his neck that limited him to 12 snaps against Chicago.

Along with Thompson and Williams, strong safety Jeron Johnson (hamstring), inside linebacker Keenan Robinson (shoulder) and wide receiver Andre Roberts (knee) were also limited.