GLENDALE, Ariz. --After missing four games with a calf suffered during the win at Indianapolis, linebacker Mychal Kendricks returned to the lineup on Sunday at Arizona in a limited role.

He played in the dime defense as the lone linebacker on the field with six defensive backs and four down linemen, about 12 to 15 snaps in all, and said after the game that his calf passed the test on his return.

"It feels good as far as me coming back and stuff," said Kendricks. "They wanted to limit my reps just to keep things safe, so that's what we did."

Kendricks was credited with a pair of tackles and could return to full-time duty on Sunday in Houston if there are no setbacks.

The defense has improved quiite a bit this season and would get a huge boost if Kendricks is all the way back. He is a dynamic player who has range and all-around skills.

"I thought he played well in what we asked him to do," said defensive coordinator Bill Davis. "It was good having him back.

While Kendricks was active, running back/kick returner Darren Sproles was not after practicing during the week. The Eagles hope he can improve during the week ahead to play in Houston after suffering a sprained Medial Collatoral Ligament in his left knee against the Giants.

There were no injuries reported from the loss in Arizona. Center Jason Kelce, listed as questionable headed into the Arizona game after practicing on a limited basis during the week, could see his practice time ramped up and might be a possibility to play against the Texans.