The New Orleans Saints activated linebacker Jonathan Vilma from the physically unable to perform list on Saturday, and he could return for Sunday's matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Vilma, who was the central figure of the NFL's bounty scandal, was rehabbing a knee injury that sidelined him for five games last season and eventually required three operations in an eight-month span.
He was put on the PUP list at the start of the second week of the NFL season in September, only after an arbitration appeals panel overturned the first suspension issued by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in May.
Vilma was again suspended for the season by Goodell when he re-issued penalties for the scandal earlier this month, but quickly appealed and is eligible to play until his hearing. The nine-year veteran said earlier in the week he planned to play Sunday after being cleared to practice.
Former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue will hear the next appeal on Oct. 30.
The Saints will play Sunday without tight end Jimmy Graham, who injured his ankle in an Oct. 7 win over the San Diego Chargers.
New Orleans also terminated the contract of wide receiver Greg Camarillo on Saturday. He appeared in three games for the Saints this season and caught four passes for 44 yards.
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