LAKE FOREST, Ill. – After missing all of training camp and the preseason while recovering from back surgery, Bears cornerback Charles Tillman returned to practice Monday at Halas Hall.

Bears cornerback Charles Tillman had 91 tackles, three interceptions and four forced fumbles in 2008.

“I was very encouraged,” Tillman said. “I felt real good. I didn’t feel limited at all. I was able to do everything. They didn’t hold me out of anything.”

The Bears hope that Tillman can play in Sunday night’s season opener in Green Bay, but his availability for the NFC North clash won’t be known until later in the week.

Tillman estimated his chances of playing at 50/50.

“I don’t know of anyone who likes to watch on the sidelines, other than the fans,” said the 2003 second-round draft pick. “I’m a player. I want to be out on the field.”

Tillman performed well last season after missing significant portions of training camp while his infant daughter recovered from a heart transplant. He started 15 of 16 games, registering 91 tackles and three interceptions while leading the Bears with four forced fumbles and 16 pass breakups.

Asked if Tillman could play Sunday night after missing the preseason, coach Lovie Smith said: “It’s a possibility. We’re going to keep all of our options open. If anyone can do it, it will probably be Charles.”

While acknowledging that Tillman still has a long way to go, Smith was happy to have him back at practice.

“Charles has helped us win a lot of games around  here, so it gives the entire team more confidence to know we are getting one of our guys back on the football field,” said the Bears coach. “Plus, he’s fresh. His muscles aren’t hurting or anything like that, and again, we know what type of player he is.”