Ex-Bulldog Thurman cleared to return to NFL

CINCINNATI -- Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman has been reinstated by the NFL after being suspended for the last seasons.

The Bengals said Monday they were informed by commissioner Roger Goodell that Thurman is eligible to play. He had been suspended because of violations of the NFL substance abuse policy.

He was cleared in January by the NFL to resume working out with the Bengals pending word on his status.

A second-round draft pick from Georgia in 2005, Thurman started 15 games at middle linebacker, led the team in tackles and tied the team rookie record with five interceptions.