Bruschi suffered a stroke on Feb.16 and underwent surgery on his heart the following month. Since then he has been visiting doctors in an effort to gather information to see if a comeback this season is possible.
"Physically, Tedy is completely back to normal, and is exceptionally healthy," said Dr. David Greer, a specialist in stroke neurology.
"I have no doubt that he will be able to perform physically at a very high level. At this time, I have advised him that, in my opinion, there are no medical reasons for him to delay his return to football."
Sidelined New England Tedy Bruschi can begin practicing this week. (CP Photo)
Bruschi is currently on New England's physically unable to perform list. The team stated he can resume practicing as early as this week, but whether he returns to game action is up to him.
"With the necessary unanimous medical clearances to return, Tedy Bruschi and his family will make the final decision as to whether he returns to the field and begins practicing once again with the team," the Patriots said in a statement.
The 32-year-old linebacker had stated early in the year that he would not return until the 2006 season.
"It was a traumatic experience," Bruschi said Monday at a news conference.. "It's a long road back. So I'm not going to jump back in unless I'm absolutely 100 per cent positive I'm ready. And I am."
The nine-year veteran, Bruschi had 122 tackles during the 2004 regular season. He also recorded 3 1/2 quarterback sacks.
He had an interception in the Patriots' 24-21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX.
The NFL champion Patriots have struggled this season. On Sunday, New England lost 28-20 to the Denver Broncos fall to 3-3. It marks the first time in three years the Patriots have lost more than two games in a season.
"I want to help this team any way I can," Bruschi said. "They tell me I can play, I know I can play, so, shoot, let's just play."
with files from Sports Network
