NFL teams
James Walker, ESPN Staff Writer 10y

Mike Pouncey (hip) back at practice

NFL, Miami Dolphins

DAVIE, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl center Mike Pouncey practiced with the team for the first time Tuesday since having major hip surgery in June.

Pouncey's status will not be determined until later in the week. But Pouncey believes he is healthy enough and ready to make his season debut Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs (0-2).

"I feel like I can play," Pouncey said after practice. "But it ain't my decision. It's really not that tough. Honestly, I'm just listening to what the coaches say and the doctors say because they know best."

Pouncey said he was a full participant in practice on Tuesday. He moved around well and looked fluid in the portion of practice open to the media.

Pouncey missed all of training camp, the preseason and the first two games of the regular season. The initial diagnosis was that he would miss 4-7 games, but Pouncey did very well rehabbing his hip and remains ahead of schedule. Pouncey said twice in training camp that he's targeting Week 4 against the Oakland Raiders in London. A return Sunday would be even better for the Dolphins and their inconsistent offensive line.

"I feel normal. It just feels good to get back in a stance without [my hip] hurting again," Pouncey said. "Right now, it's just listening to what team doctors tell me as far as reps in practice. But I'm full go almost."

The Dolphins could certainly use Pouncey sooner than later. Miami's offensive line struggled in last week's 29-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills. The Dolphins allowed four quarterback sacks and only rushed for 80 yards.

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