Houston Texans' Jadeveon Clowney returns to practice following microfracture surgery

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Houston outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney is finally back on the practice field.

The top overall pick in the 2014 draft was spotted this morning on the practice field with the rest of the team. It's the first time he's been out there since his December microfracture surgery.

Clowney isn't expected to have a full practice as he's still recovering, but head coach Bill O'Brien told HoustonTexans.com Sunday night that it's possible Clowney could play in the team's first regular season game.

"He's worked really hard to get back to where he is right now," O'Brien said. "We're all looking forward to seeing him back out there on the field because we know he can help us. So, it will be a good day Monday for him to put the gear on and get back out there."

Clowney played in four games in his rookie season, amassing a season-high 49 snaps against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12.

ESPN.com and The Associated Press contributed to this report.