Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley has admitted that he is optimistic of returning to action before the end of the campaign.
The 26-year-old has missed the last four games with a sprained knee, and his coach Jim Caldwell has expressed doubt that he will make a comeback before the season is over.
Fairley however, sees it differently, and has stated that although he is taking his recovery one day at a time, he will pull on a Lions jersey again in 2014.
He told reporters: "Right now I'm taking it one day at a time.
"I'm just trying to strengthen my knee up as strong as I can so I can hopefully get back out there this year.
"In my eyes, yes [that is a real possibility]."
Despite Caldwell doubting his ability to return, he has been impressed by Fairley's ability to keep his weight down since sustaining the problem.
