The long wait is finally over for QB Derek Anderson.

"Derek Anderson has cleared the (concussion) protocol," said head coach Sean McDermott on Friday.

The veteran quarterback has had a lengthy spell on the injured list due to a concussion suffered all the way back in Week 8 against New England. Patriots LB Kyle Van Noy struck Anderson from behind as he buried the crown of his helmet in between Anderson's shoulder blades.

Anderson had made progress over the last few weeks as he had been practicing on a non-contact basis, an indication he was in Step 4 of the return-to-participation protocol. But he could not clear the fifth and final step, which is full medical clearance.

Nevertheless, McDermott was pleased to see Anderson finally gain full clearance.

"Anytime you have a guy who has been out multiple weeks it's important that you can get him back healthy as soon as possible," he said. "So I'm encouraged by that."

As for the quarterback depth chart for Sunday's game, it sounds as though Matt Barkley will remain the backup this week, with Anderson likely inactive.