Updated

Houston Texans wide receiver Cecil Shorts, who separated his shoulder on the final play of the team's Oct. 4 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, said he's ahead of schedule in his recovery.

Per the Houston Chronicle, Shorts didn't practice Monday, but his arm is no longer in a sling and the injury won't require surgery.

The five-year veteran is considered more likely play Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars than fellow receiver Nate Washington, who is dealing with a hamstring injury.

"I feel good, I'm coming along," Shorts said. "I'm way ahead of schedule. We'll see how things go. We've got to be smart about it."

In four games, Shorts has 22 receptions for 236 yards and one touchdown.

With both Shorts and Washington out for last Thursday's loss to the Indianapolis Colts, rookie Jaelen Strong turned in a two-touchdown performance for the Texans, while fellow rookie Keith Mumphery contributed four catches as well.

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