Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew sat out of practice again on Thursday, making it unlikely that he'll make his return to the field on Sunday against the New England Patriots, according to Ryan O'Halloran of the Florida Times-Union.

Jones-Drew was optimistic on Wednesday about a potential Week 16 return from a foot injury suffered during the first few snaps of a Week 7 game against the Oakland Raiders. However, head coach Mike Mularkey told reporters on Wednesday that the three-time Pro Bowler would be an unlikely member of the lineup if he was unable to practice Thursday.

"It will be difficult, yes," Mularkey said of the scenario. "It would be difficult. It's not out of the question but it would be difficult."

In seven seasons with the Jaguars, Jones-Drew has eclipsed many team records including passing Fred Taylor for the franchise's most touchdowns. He still trails Taylor in rushing yards by 4,003 yards.