Derrick Rose returns to full-contact practice

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Derrick Rose took a big step towards his latest return Monday as he participated in full-contact practice.

This is the first time the Bulls guard has had contact in practice since undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus on his right knee. While the news is encouraging, he still has some obstacles to overcome.

“He was aggressive. As I said, the big thing was he was a little winded," Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said, via ESPN Chicago's Scott Powers.

"We expected that. But overall, I thought it was good. ... He said he feels good. Physically, he feels good. The big thing is going to be the wind, the conditioning. He’s been out a long time.”

Rose didn't speak to reporters after practice Monday, but he sounded encouraged about his progress earlier this month.

After Rose's surgery, the timetable was placed at four to six weeks. Friday will mark five weeks since he underwent the third knee surgery of his career.

“This is the next step,” Thibodeau said, per ESPN. “We’ll know more as he goes forward. Obviously he needs some practice time where he’s taking contact on.”

The Bulls haven't announced an exact target date for Rose to return to the floor.

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Jordan Heck is a social media producer at Sporting News