Green Bay Packers defensive Mike Neal has missed the entire season to date but will practice for the first time on Thursday.
Neal is expected to be limited, but the fact that he’ll be back practicing with the team is encouraging. It’s unlikely that Neal would be ready to play Monday night against the Vikings. Coach Mike McCarthy said it’s just too early to tell.
AUDIO: Mike McCarthy on Mike Neal’s status :14
Neal hasn’t practiced since undergoing surgery on Sept. 13 to remove loose chunks of cartilage in his left knee.
Neal has appeared in just two regular season games since being drafted in the second round of the 2010 draft.
The Packers are looking for some pass rush help from their defensive line. They have just 5 sacks in 8 games from their defensive linemen, three from Jarius Wynn and two from B.J. Raji.