Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley is recovering from spinal fusion surgery and making plans to begin a rehabilitation schedule of at least three months.
Packers coach Mike McCarthy announced the news of Finley's surgery at his Friday news conference.
If all goes well Finley has a chance to play again next season.
"While his return to professional football is a hot-topic conversation, his ability to live a long and fulfilling life with his loved ones is by far and away our main objective," according to a statement from Finley's agent, Blake Baratz.
Finley, 26, was injured in Oct. 20's 31-13 victory over the Cleveland Browns. He is on injured reserve and has insisted he will play again. Thursday's surgery was in Pittsburgh.
Finley will become an unrestricted free agent at season's end. He had 25 catches for 300 yards and three touchdowns when he was injured.