Suspended Oregon back might return

EUGENE, Ore., Oct. 2 (UPI) -- University of Oregon football coach Chip Kelly says suspended running back LeGarrette Blount has a chance to return this season.

No time line was given.

Kelly suspended the senior on Sept. 4 for the rest of the season for punching a Boise State player following a 19-8 loss to the Broncos.

When Kelly announced the suspension, he said Blount could take part in all team activities, including practice, but would not be allowed to play in any game.

"After speaking with a number of nationally renowned professionals in the field, which included (African-American sociologist) Dr. Harry Edwards and (former NFL coach) Tony Dungy, I came to the conclusion that leaving the door open for LeGarrette's potential return as an active player was the best solution," Kelly said Friday on the school's Web site.

Blount has since apologized for "losing my head."