Louis Delmas could finally be back on the field the next time the Detroit Lions play on Oct. 14 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The safety returned to practice on Wednesday for the first time since July 31 and the arthroscopic surgery he had on his left knee on Aug. 7. Delmas was limited in the session, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, and indicated he could have been back sooner.

“I could've practiced last week,” Delmas said. “Yeah, I felt good out there.”

The Lions have been dealing with issues in the secondary and need Delmas back in the mix. He missed time a year ago and the cautious approach this season is likely to prevent a recurring problem. Coach Jim Schwartz said he participated in individual drills only but did so at a high level. The goal is for him to face the Eagles after the Lions come out of their bye this week.

“It’s going to depend on how he responds,” Schwartz said. “And if he responds well to this, then how he responds through a week of practice. But we’re still leading to that point.”

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune