Bears activate Pernell McPhee to play vs. Packers

Pernell McPhee is back.

The Bears activated the outside linebacker Thursday afternoon, clearing the way for him to play — at least a little — against the rival Packers on Thursday night.

McPhee was on the physically unable to perform list after having offseason arthroscopic knee surgery. While he was away, he lost weight. The Bears will likely monitor both knees for the rest of his tenure.

McPhee hasn’t participated in a full, strenuous practice since last season. He practiced in light workouts Friday and Tuesday.

He said Tuesday that he knew what to expect from himself.

“Just nasty, hard-nosed, going crazy on the field-type guy,” he saud. “Just physical, man.”

To make room, the Bears waived fullback Paul Lasike.

McPhee had six sacks, one interception and a career-high 64 tackles last year after signing a five-year, $38.75 million deal, but was hampered by his knee problem the second half of the season.

the team had 21 days to activate him or lose him for the season once he began practicing Friday.

The Bears hope McPhee can provide a spark, but need him to play well first.

“Just by being out there in uniform doesn’t do jack,” defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said.