Chiefs' Berry cleared to practice 7 months after lymphoma diagnosis

Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry has progressed enough in his recovery from Hodgkin's lymphoma that he's been cleared to practice Wednesday, the team announced late Tuesday night.

Berry's diagnosis shocked the league last December and the 26-year-old was forced to cut his season short and begin treatment. Head coach Andy Reid gave a positive update on Berry's condition in May, but Tuesday's announcement was undoubtedly a pleasant surprise.

"We should have an answer for you on Eric within a day here," Reid told reporters earlier Tuesday. "So far everything's positive, but we don't want to give you anything until we have everything."

There hasn't been much positive news for the Chiefs on the defensive side of the ball as of late. Cornerback Sean Smith was recently suspended three games and defensive tackle Dontari Poe will miss training camp after undergoing back surgery. Berry's return should give the entire organization a boost.

A three-time Pro Bowler, the former fifth-overall pick has developed into one of the league's top safeties.