The Sports Xchange

The Cincinnati Bengals activated linebacker Vontaze Burfict from the physically unable to perform list on Saturday.

Burfict was cleared to rejoin the team in practice on Thursday after being on the reserve/PUP list since Sept. 5 due to the continuing need for rehab of a knee injury.

Burfict was added to the active 53-man roster after practice Saturday and is expected to play Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking his return to the field for the first time since Oct. 26, 2014.

Burfict, a fourth-year player, was the Bengals’ leading tackler in both 2012 and 2013. He was a Pro Bowl selection for the 2013 season.

Burfict, 25, played in five of the first seven games last season but missed the last nine games due to a left knee injury suffered last October against the Baltimore Ravens.

The Bengals also terminated the contract of fifth-year wide receiver Greg Little, releasing him to free agency.

Little played in six games for the Bengals last season and rejoined the team as a free agent for 2015 training camp. He led the team in preseason with 145 receiving yards but was inactive for all six games of the regular season.