Will defensive tackle Corey Williams, who underwent knee surgery earlier this season, play on Monday against the Bears? He practiced Thursday, which is a good sign. (US Presswire)

When Lions defensive tackle Corey Williams spoke with reporters following the knee surgery that has kept him out of the lineup since Week 4, he pledged that he would do everything he could to return to action as quickly as possible.

He made good on his promise Thursday when he participated in the portion of practice open to media, without incident.

It’s unclear whether Williams will be ready for Monday’s game in Chicago -- his status will likely depend on whether or not he experiences swelling in his knee this week -- but the fact that he’s on the field just three weeks after having surgery is a good sign.

Williams said before the season that he was committed to assuming a leadership role with the Lions this year, and his actions during his three-week layoff have reinforced those claims. Instead of staying away from the practice field while completing post-surgery rehab, Williams has been present at workouts and has maintained strong lines of communication with defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham. His dedication wasn’t lost on his teammates, and Williams’ return to defensive line drills was greeted with an increased intensity among the entire unit.

Williams wasn’t the only Lions’ player to return to drills Thursday. WR Nate Burleson and DE Cliff Avril also took part in the open portion of practice after they were given rest days Wednesday.

Cornerbacks Bill Bentley (shoulder) and Jacob Lacey (concussion) missed practice for the second consecutive day Thursday, decreasing the likelihood that either player will be available Monday against the Bears. Detroit addressed the depth concerns caused by the pair’s absence by re-signing CB Alphonso Smith and releasing RB Keiland Williams . Smith was traded to the Lions in 2010, and spent two seasons with the team before being released during training camp this season.

The decision to release a running back to make room for Smith wasn’t surprising, since Mikel Leshoure and Joique Bell have proven capable of handling the bulk of the rushing workload. What was surprising, however, was the team’s decision to release Williams, who was active for Detroit’s Week 6 win over Philadelphia, over Kevin Smith, who wasn’t. Smith told reporters Monday that he was a healthy scratch at Lincoln Financial Field, and his playing time has decreased steadily all season. It’s likely his experience as a starter was the key element in the decision to retain him.

Bentley and Lacey were joined on the sidelines of Thursday’s practice by defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and safety Louis Delmas. Both players practiced during Wednesday’s short workout, and are expected to receive reduced practice workloads this season while they recover from knee injuries. Unless Delmas or Vanden Bosch miss additional practice time, they should be available to play Monday night.

Follow Lions reporter John Kreger on Twitter at @CBSLions and @JohnKreger.