Pernell McPhee was back on the practice field Monday and is in the best shape of his tenure with the Bears, according to coach John Fox.

Per Fox: Outside linebacker Pernell McPhee is in the best shape he's been in as a Chicago Bear. Coming off right knee scope before camp. — Jeff Joniak (@JeffJoniak) September 4, 2017

McPhee, who’s been recovering from a knee injury throughout training camp, was expected to start the season on the physically unable to perform list. That changed yesterday, with news of the team activating him in time for Week 1.

#Bears coach John Fox on OLB Pernell McPhee at practice: "Watching him move around today, felt good about that." — Zach Zaidman (@ZachZaidman) September 4, 2017

McPhee’s better known for his injuries than his production in Chicago. If he’s healthy and productive in 2017, his chance to return to the Bears in 2018 will go way up.

According to Fox, McPhee looks ready to go.

Fox on McPhee: "He's probably the lowest weight, he's the most physically strong, really, he's been since our people have seen him."#Bears — Zach Zaidman (@ZachZaidman) September 4, 2017

McPhee’s Bears career started well in 2015. He registered six sacks in the first half of the season before a knee injury forced him in and out of the lineup. He appeared in only nine games last season and was never quite 100-percent healthy.

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McPhee’s healthy return is a must for the Bears’ defense to reach its maximum potential. Combined with Leonard Floyd, Jerrell Freeman and Danny Trevathan, Chicago has one of the elite linebacker groups in the NFL. They just haven’t been healthy enough to prove it.

Trevathan, like McPhee, appeared in only nine games last season after a knee injury forced him to miss the final seven games.

McPhee signed a five-year, $38.75 million deal with the Bears in 2015 to be a high-impact leader on the defense. He’s flashed the ability to be one at times, but Chicago needs him to elevate to that role now more than ever.

The Bears’ defense will face a challenging Week 1 opponent when the Falcons come to Soldier Field. They’ll need all the help they can get to stop QB Matt Ryan, RB Devonta Freeman and WR Julio Jones.

Having McPhee as a pass-rusher and physical thumper against the run will go a long way in keeping Atlanta’s offense in check.