FOXBORO — The Patriots returned one defensive starter and two backups at Tuesday’s walkthrough practice, the team’s only practice before kicking off at Pittsburgh on Thursday night.

Defensive lineman Deatrich Wise was back on the field after missing last weekend’s game due to illness. Wide receiver Kayshon Boutte and cornerback Shaun Wade also returned from their own illnesses.

The Patriots had just two player absences, both on offense.

Running back Rhamondre Stevenson and wide receiver Demario Douglas were missing. Stevenson suffered a reported high ankle sprain last weekend in the Patriots’ 6-0 loss to the Chargers. He did not return to the game and is expected to miss multiple weeks.

Douglas continues to sit out with a concussion he suffered 10 days ago in a loss at the Giants. He remains the team’s leading receiver, even after missing Sunday’s loss. Douglas has not practiced in two weeks.

Fellow rookie receiver Kayshon Boutte (illness) returned to practice. His availability for Thursday night’s game is unclear.

The Patriots will release their next injury report Thursday evening.