Johnny Knox believes he will play again

Receiver Johnny Knox wasn’t surprised when the Bears placed him on the physically unable to perform list, which means he’ll miss the first six weeks of the season.

“It was to be expected,” Knox said. “I knew I wouldn’t be able to come back for training camp or preseason, so I’m just still taking it day by day.”

Asked about his hope of returning in 2012, Knox said, “Most definitely.

“It could be six weeks into the season, or later in the season. But, we’ll all see.”

Naturally, Knox said it’s been difficult to watch practices and not contribute to the team.

“But, I’ve learned some things, by sitting back and watching the other guys,” he said. “The guys are out there competing and having fun, and I just want to have a piece of that.”

Asked if he’ll ever play in the NFL again, Knox said, “I do believe I’ll be back on the field.

“It could be this season, next season, who knows? But I’m going to keep striving to get better and get back on the field.”