Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict will return to practice Thursday

Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict (knee) will return to practice Thursday, reports Jim Owczarski of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

The team will now have three weeks to active Burfict and make the necessary corresponding roster moves. The 25 year old is coming back from offseason microfracture surgery on his left knee and has received medical clearance to practice, but that doesn't guarantee his availability for Sunday game against Pittsburgh.

More than likely the Bengals will want to see their former Pro Bowler make it through a series of practices before inserting him into game-time action. Burfict might make his season debut against Cleveland in Week 9.