FRISCO, Texas -- The Dallas Cowboys will wait until Saturday to activate defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence from the reserve/suspended list, according to a source.

Lawrence returned to practice this week after missing the first four games for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy. With guard La'el Collins moved to injured reserve earlier in the week after having toe surgery, the Cowboys do not have to create a roster spot for Lawrence.

They will have until 4 p.m. ET Saturday to make the move in order for Lawrence to play Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Lawrence was not made available to the media during the week.

"He looks great," linebacker Sean Lee said. "He had a really good camp, worked hard during training camp, had a really good offseason, so I think he’s ready to play. And I think he’ll have a big impact."

Lawrence had back surgery that kept him off the field in the organized team activities and mini-camp in the spring. He was able to practice during training camp and played in the preseason before his suspension took effect.

Lawrence’s health is something of a question because he was limited in practice earlier in the week, but that was more because he was coming off a month-long absence. The type of role Lawrence, who led the Cowboys in sacks last season, plays on Sunday is to be determined as well. He could play as a third-down pass rusher as the Cowboys work him in slowly.

Jason Garrett said Lawrence has looked better as practices have gone on. The Cowboys have just six sacks so far this season.

"He’s a big part of our defense," Lee said.