Linebacker Kwon Alexander didn't appear on any injury lists as the San Francisco 49ers kicked off training camp. He is cleared to participate in practices. The team, however, is being cautious and easing its free-agent acquisition back onto the football field.
Alexander is nine months removed from the torn ACL he suffered during Week 7 last year while with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He received some 11-on-11 work during Sunday's practice, which is an impressive accomplishment considering the injury from which he is returning.
How does it feel to be back on the field?
"I feel legendary," Alexander responded on Sunday.
The linebacker was asked to explain his answer.
"That's the word I use; it's better," he said. "I don't like to use the word G-O-O-D (which he spelled out), good because I'm trying to be better than that. So I use ['legendary'] just to keep my mindset where it needs to be, and that's what it is."
By the way, Alexander's surgery to repair his knee took place in November. "Legendary" might be an appropriate word to describe the accomplishment of getting back on the field when some questioned if he would even be ready for Week 1 of the regular season.
Alexander remained focused and kept his "mind straight" throughout the recovery process.
"A lot of people get down in those situations," he continued. "I was just telling myself to stay focused, keep praying, and I'm going to get back to myself, even better. So that was the main goal."
Alexander went on to describe what it is like finally being out there with his teammates and making plays on the field.
"It feels great," he said while smiling. "Just the point of me being out there, moving around; it just felt great. Then being able to read and react like I still can do it. That's what it is, just getting all the confidence back, making sure my team can trust in me, and I can trust in them. That's the main goal."