Report: Bengals' Vontaze Burfict could open season on PUP list

Reports of Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict possibly returning in time for training camp may be premature.

Burfict underwent microfracture surgery on his left knee in January and, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com, his status is still up in the air.

"If you read the tea leaves it's a tight call whether he's ready for the season or starts it on PUP," Hobson wrote.

Burfict made an appearance at the Marvin Lewis Community Fund Golf Classic recently, but as Hobson noted, that doesn't necessarily mean he's back in full form yet:

"Hopefully it's a good sign, but I don't think it translates directly into an Opening Day start. Two different deals. They're keeping their fingers crossed and I think it's going to be close for the opener."

Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed Burfict's surgery, told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport in January that the goal was for him to be full-go in July. Based on this latest update, that could be wishful thinking.