Miami Dolphins linebacker Matt Roth returns to practice after groin injury

Dolphins LB Roth rejoins practice

DAVIE, Fla. — Miami Dolphins linebacker Matt Roth practiced Wednesday for the first time this season, and he might play Sunday against unbeaten New Orleans.

Roth had been sidelined since the start of training camp with a groin injury. Wednesday was the first day he was eligible to come off the reserve-non-football injury list.

“It was fun to get out there and run around — better than pushing a medicine ball and running in circles by yourself,” he said.

Coach Tony Sparano said a decision whether to activate Roth for the Saints game as a reserve would be made later this week.

“It was good to see Matt Roth back out there on the practice field,” Sparano said. “He had a lot of energy, and he should, and was excited to be out there.”

Roth enjoyed his best season last year, when he moved from end to outside linebacker, started 14 games and bolstered the Dolphins’ run defense.

The injury layoff was his longest at any level, and it cost him a starting job. He’ll return as backup to Jason Taylor, reacquired during the offseason, and Joey Porter.

“It has been frustrating,” Roth said. “But now I put it behind me.”

Porter has been slowed in recent weeks by a sore right hamstring, but took part in drills Wednesday and said he’s fine.

“I’m back now,” Porter said. “I feel good. I’m not limited at anything. I’m ready to go.”