The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their journey toward locking up the top overall spot in the AFC playoff picture with a win this week, and it appears Joe Haden will be back in action for their huge matchup against the New England Patriots.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Steelers' secondary could be getting some much-needed help with the former Pro Bowl cornerback returning to practice this week.

Haden has missed the last four games due to a fractured fibula that he suffered in the 20-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 12. There was anticipation that he would make his return to the team at some point late in the second half of the regular season. His status for Sunday's game against the Patriots should be determined by how his body holds up in practice this week.

Coty Sensabaugh has held down the left starting cornerback spot in his absence, while rookie Cameron Sutton has helped alleviate some of the responsibility. The return of Haden might help lighten the blow of losing linebacker Ryan Shazier for the season due to a neck injury. The Steelers currently rank fourth in the league against the pass, eighth in opposing passer rating (81.1), and seventh in interceptions (13).

The 28-year-old is in his first year with the Steelers after being released by the Cleveland Browns in late August following seven seasons with the team. Haden decided to sign a three-year, $27 million deal to join Pittsburgh.