HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- After three weeks on the sideline with a pulled hamstring, New York Jets defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson returned to practice Sunday night and could make his preseason debut next Saturday against the New York Giants.

It was encouraging news for a defensive unit that has started slowly in the preseason. But at the same time, rookie linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin -- a third-round pick from Louisville -- limped to the locker room during practice with a knee injury. Coach Todd Bowles said he was awaiting word on the severity.

Wilkerson, who suffered a setback last week, practiced in team drills for the first time since getting hurt, Aug. 2. He worked exclusively with the backups, showing a nice burst on a play in which he chased rookie quarterback Bryce Petty out of the pocket.

"He's feeling a lot better," Bowles said. "He's moving pretty good. We're bringing him along slowly, but he'll practice this week. Pending any setbacks, he'll play this weekend."

The starters are expected to play at least a half against the Giants, and the plan is to get Wilkerson some time with the first group -- if his cranky hamstring cooperates.

"I hope so, but my hamstring ... I have to make sure it's good throughout the week," Wilkerson said. "It felt good today. That's why I got some reps with the team. Hopefully, I'll continue to progress."

The injury came at an inopportune time for Wilkerson, who is entering the final year of his contract. The two sides are negotiating a long-term extension, but an artificial deadline is approaching. Wilkerson has said he will table discussions if a deal can't be reached by the start of the regular season.

The Jets need Wilkerson in the lineup because they won't have defensive end Sheldon Richardson for the first four games as he serves a suspension for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy. In Friday night's win over the Atlanta Falcons, No. 1 pick Leonard Williams and veteran Stephen Bowen started for Richardson and Wilkerson.

"I need practice reps to get in the flow with my teammates," Wilkerson said. "I haven't been out there in weeks. The guys have been installing and I haven't been out there. I need to catch up a little bit."

Mauldin isn't expected to have a prominent role on defense, but he's seen as someone who could contribute eventually this season as a pass-rushing specialist.

The Jets held a special practice at Hofstra University, their former year-round home for 40 years. They moved their headquarters to New Jersey in 2008, but they make it back once a year. The practice drew more than 11,000 fans.