Detroit Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew closing in on return

Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was on the field for Tuesday's practice, signifying that the team activated him from the physically unable to perform list.

Pettigrew has been unable to participate after tearing his ACL in December. The 31-year-old has a three-week window to practice with the team before either being placed on the 53-man roster or injured reserve for the remainder of the season.

Pettigrew has reeled in 301 receptions for 2,965 yards and 17 touchdowns since being selected with the 20th overall pick of the 2009 draft.

Fellow tight end Eric Ebron has 35 catches for 451 yards and one touchdown this season for the Lions (6-4), who host the Minnesota Vikings (6-4) on Thursday afternoon.