ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions once looked like they would not have either of their starting defensive tackles for Sunday's playoff opener against the Dallas Cowboys.

Now it's possible they'll have both.

Nick Fairley returned to practice Thursday for the first time since he sprained his right knee during a Week 8 game in London against the Atlanta Falcons. He practiced with a brace on the knee, but moved well.

And he crushed all concerns about his fitness.

Fairley, who has struggled with his weight throughout his career, looked as trim as he has all season. He was playing at about 305 pounds to open the season, and said about a month ago he was down to 292.

He's expected to be listed as limited on the injury report, and his status for the Dallas game is uncertain. Coach Jim Caldwell said earlier this week Fairley would need a "miracle" to play.

But his return today signals that if Detroit knocks off the Cowboys, Fairley should be back for a second-round game against the Seattle Seahawks.

Fairley's return comes just two days after star Ndamukong Suh had a one-game suspension lifted. That's a huge boost for a defense that has to contain the league's No. 1 tailback, DeMarco Murray.

The only player to miss Lions practice was right guard Larry Warford, who injured his right knee against Green Bay. He has not started running and is unlikely to play against the Cowboys.

Rookie Travis Swanson is expected to start in his place for the fourth time this season.