Latrell Mitchell, the talented superstar of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, continues to face challenges in his recovery from a calf injury he incurred during a training session in mid-June, just before Round 17.
This injury has meant he could not participate in the State of Origin decider, and he has also been dealing with a back issue that has kept him out of play since Round 11.
Although the NRL's Casualty Ward suggests he might return next week, Bennett acknowledged in a media briefing on Friday that Mitchell is still "two or three weeks" away from making his comeback.
This season, the 29-year-old has only managed to make nine appearances for the Rabbitohs, struggling with fitness throughout the year.
When at his best, Mitchell is arguably the most explosive player in the competition and showed flashes of exceptional form earlier in the season before his back problems interrupted his rhythm on the field.
In a significant boost for the Rabbitohs ahead of their upcoming match against the Raiders, they will see the return of Alex Johnston and Cody Walker from their respective absences.
"He's good. He's had a couple of weeks off, and he gave the leg more time to recover because he had a calf problem; it wasn't a knee, but he'll keep the knee strapped until the end of the season," Bennett mentioned about Johnston's return.
"He (Cody) is a wonderful player for us, and we're pleased to have him back. He knows what the rules are and he just has to play inside that."
This week has brought positive news for the Rabbitohs, who also confirmed the extension of halfback Ashton Ward's contract until the end of 2028.