Lyerla declined all interview requests but coach Chip Kelly said the sophomore has been cleared to return and will have to go through a five-day acclimation period just like any other player before he wears full pads.
Kelly also declared the tight end position an open competition but singled out freshmen Pharaoh Brown and Terrence Daniel as having done a nice job.
Lyerla was the projected starter after spring ball, but was not with the team when training camp began. Kelly declined to provide the reasons for Lyerla's absence, saying only:
"Colt Lyerla, who had a great summer for us, has got a couple of things he's got to take care of and should be at practice shortly."
Lyerla caught just seven passes as a true freshman in 2011, but five were for touchdowns. He was the backup last fall to senior David Paulson, the player Kelly reiterated on Tuesday might be the toughest to replace for 2012.
The only other tight end on the roster with any experience is walk-on junior Brian Teague, who hasn't caught a pass in two seasons. Converted defensive end Koa Ka'ai and walk-on Jennings Stewart are also on the roster.
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