Sam Walker is a possibility for the Sydney Roosters' preliminary final after returning to running three weeks after ankle surgery.
Coach Trent Robinson said Walker's progress was encouraging, with the halfback back in free movement and training.
"He's a chance (to play next week)," Robinson said.
The Roosters will first face Cronulla in Saturday's semi-final at Allianz Stadium, with Angus Crichton cleared to return.
The 30-year-old Test forward has missed matches since round 15 with a foot injury and was withdrawn shortly before last week's qualifying-final defeat by Penrith.
Crichton, a 17-time State of Origin player, will switch to rugby union after the Roosters' season ends.
"(He's) ready to go," Robinson said on Friday.
Salesi Foketi could make way if Crichton starts, although Robinson said Crichton might also come from the bench.
A Roosters win would set up a preliminary final against the Dolphins, potentially giving Walker an opportunity to return.
The Roosters have only six days between matches, while Newcastle will receive nine days before Sunday's game against the Warriors.
Robinson accepted the demanding schedule, saying, "they're the cards we're dealt and we're ready to play on six days, five days, four days, whatever it takes."