Although the Detroit Lions continue to downplay the practice return of defensive tackle Nick Fairley, the rookie will make his debut Monday night against the Chicago Bears, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The 12th overall pick of the NFL draft, Fairley broke his foot in training camp, causing him to miss the entire preseason and the team's first four games. Lions coach Jim Schwartz sidestepped questions regarding Fairley's potential availability earlier in the week. But according to the source, Fairley has told friends and family -- who are traveling to Detroit for the game -- that he expects to participate in a situational capacity.