Chris Perry returns to practice this afternoon

Explosive third-down back Chris Perry, a playmaker the Bengals' dormant offense desperately needs, will officially return to practice today, coach Marvin Lewis announced early third afternoon. Perry was removed from the physically unable to perform list.

He was listed as questionable for the game Sunday against Carolina with the ankle injury.

Also listed as questionable: strong safety Dexter Jackson (ankle), linebacker Rashad Jeanty (foot) and linebacker Brian Simmons (neck).

Out is left tackle Levi Jones, who is undergoing exploratory surgery on his left knee today, Lewis said. Also out are center Rich Braham (knee), wide receiver Tab Perry (hip), wide receiver Kelley Washington (hamstring) and quarterback Anthony Wright (appendix).

Asked when Chris Perry might play, Lewis said, "It could be Sunday. It could be the next Sunday. It could be the Sunday after that."

Perry declined specific comment in the locker room but alluded to the fact that he is healthy enough to play.