Jadeveon Clowney back at practice

— -- HOUSTON -- Texans outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney returned to practice Friday for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery on Sept. 8 for a torn meniscus.

Clowney, who made his return exactly six weeks since his last practice, wore a brace on his right knee during the portion that was open to cameras.

The Texans play the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday

Clowney was asked if he would be surprised if he didn't play Monday.

"No," he replied. "It's like I said, I'm taking it one day at time right now. I've been rehabbing, just trying to get back."

Whitney Mercilus in his absence. Mercilus was a first-round pick in 2012 and has notched 19 tackles, three tackles for loss and six quarterback hits this season.