Carolina Panthers linebacker Jon Beason has returned to full training following a knee injury.

Beason underwent microfracture surgery on his knee during the off-season and has now moved onto the next stage of his recovery process.

The Panthers are hopeful that the three-time Pro Bowl player will be fit for the start of the new season, which kicks off for them on September 8 against the Seattle Seahawks.

Coach Ron Rivera refused to say whether or not Beason would be involved in the Panthers' pre-season match against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, but he did hint that the 28-year-old could be involved if he responds well to his return to training.

Wide receiver Domenik Hixon has also returned to training for the Panthers having recovered from a hamstring injury.