Things are continuing to look up for Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

The former NFL MVP is in the league's concussion protocol after suffering a neck injury in an AFC Divisional Round playoff victory over the Cleveland Browns. However, Mahomes did some light work during Wednesday's practice, and he was back on the field Thursday afternoon.

Nate Taylor of The Athletic reported Mahomes practiced with a helmet, suggesting the Chiefs passer is progressing towards active status for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Buffalo Bills. Taylor added running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire and wide receiver Sammy Watkins both practice for the second consecutive day.

Just in case it needed further clarifying, Taylor went on to state Mahomes looked normal throwing the ball and moving about during the open portion of Thursday's practice.

This is an inherently positive development, but Mahomes is not out of the woods yet.

Because Mahomes is still in concussion protocol, he will have to undergo further testing before being cleared to play. Though his participation in practice would suggest he is progressing physically, that final hurdle is still there.

The 25-year-old was having a terrific game against the Browns prior to sustaining the injury in the third quarter.

Mahomes completed 21 of 30 pass attempts for 255 yards and a touchdown, and he was leading the Chiefs on another drive before going down awkwardly while scrambling on a 3rd-and-1. He was taken to the locker room and was promptly ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Fortunately for Mahomes, the defense and Chad Henne made some big plays down the stretch, sending Kansas City to its third straight AFC Championship. The Chiefs will now hope their star quarterback will indeed be available ahead of a showdown with the high-scoring Bills.