Bears second-year offensive tackle Gabe Carimi said he expects to be ready before the team's veteran mini camp in a month.

"I'm feeling really good. They're saying another couple of weeks, and I'll be here for OTAs and mini camps," Carimi said Saturday night from the Bears Care Gala. "I'm just chomping at the bit to get back, and actually be back with the o-line and not on the outside looking in."

Carimi suffered a knee injury in Week 2, and he had ups and downs before being placed on injured reserve and undergoing surgery.

The Bears had been careful about his return, but coach Lovie Smith had been offering some encouraging comments over the last couple months.

"The training staff of the Bears are doing a great job. I'm going to be back very soon, so we're all very excited to get me back on the field," Carimi said.

Carimi is expected to return to his role last season, as the starting right tackle.