Aldon Smith returns to San Francisco 49ers active roster

San Francisco 49ers pass rusher Aldon Smith has returned to the team's active roster following a stint in rehab.

The franchise decided to take him off of the non-football injury list on Thursday, meaning that he can return to team practice and be eligible to play against the Carolina Panthers when the 49ers return from their bye week.

Smith was charged with felonies while he was on indefinite leave from the team and being treated for substance abuse following a DUI arrest in September.

The 24-year-old will look to win his place back in the starting lineup from Corey Lemonier, who has stood in since Smith became unavailable.