More than eight months after undergoing ACL surgery, Auburn defensive end Carl Lawson returned to practice this week.

After missing the season — he suffered the injury prior to A-Day — Lawson participated in non-contact drills this week as the Tigers continued bowl preparations.

“It’s great to see him out there in pads and a helmet, Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn told the Montgomery Advertiser on Friday. “I know he’s got a big smile on his face. He’s doing what he can do, but it’s really good to have his presence out there and his leadership.”

Lawson won’t play in the Outback Bowl on Jan. 1, and will either apply for medical redshirt or accept a regular redshirt, Malzahn said.

Malzahn and new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp expect Auburn’s best pass rusher to be at full strength entering spring practice.

“As far as right now, he’s ahead of schedule and looks really good doing the non-contact drills he’s been doing,” Malzahn said. “He’s worked extremely hard to get back.”

Lawson recorded 20 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks last season. Malzahn said this work is good for him, and gives him a  chance to test his knee.

“Any time you come off a knee injury it takes a little bit to get used to it, how it feels,’ Malzahn said. “One day it may be a little sore. I think it’s very valuable he’s able to do that now. Once he gets to spring, we’ll turn him loose and we expect him to be back to normal.”