As the Redskins prepare for their third preseason game Saturday afternoon against the Indianapolis Colts, they got a boost Wednesday with the return of running back Roy Helu to practice.

According to The Washington Post, Helu has missed about a week-and-a-half of practice time with two sore Achillies tendons. Shanahan did say that Helu was limited in Wednesday's workout, and it is unclear when he will return to full strength.

Helu's main competition for the starting running back spot, Tim Hightower, is still working his way back from offseason surgery to repair a torn ACL and also missed Tuesday's practice while attending his grandfather's funeral. Shanahan said that he wasn't sure if Helu and Hightower would be ready for Washington's season opener, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 9 against the New Orleans Saints.

For more on the Redskins, check out Hogs Haven and stay tuned to SB Nation D.C.