FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, recovering from minor back and right elbow ailments, returned to full practice Thursday -- three days before the Jets' win-and-they're-in game against the Buffalo Bills.
Fitzpatrick sat out a portion of Wednesday's practice, saying afterward, "it's nothing really to be concerned about." He was banged up in last Sunday's win over the New England Patriots. He is also dealing with residual soreness in his left thumb, which was surgically repaired on Nov. 13.
The bigger issue for the Jets (10-5) is the running back position. Starter Chris Ivory (knee) was limited for the second day, but the larger question is Bilal Powell (ankle), who missed practice for the second day in a row.
Coach Todd Bowles admitted he's "a little bit" concerned by the injuries. If Powell can't play, it would mean more playing time for Stevan Ridley, who has only 61 rushing yards and two receptions in a third-string role.
Powell has been a key player during the Jets' five-game winning streak, compiling 394 yards from scrimmage and 27 catches over that span.
Ivory has rushed for a team-high 989 yards, but has faltered in recent weeks.
"They've been banged up all year," Bowles said of his running backs. "We just have to keep rolling."
Right tackle Breno Giacomini (ankle) also hasn't practiced this week, but he said he is planning to play.
The Jets will clinch a wild-card berth by beating the Bills (7-8). They can back into the postseason if the Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6) lose to the Cleveland Browns (3-12).