Michael Sam back in Montreal

The Montreal Alouettes lost their season-opener Thursday night to the Ottawa RedBlacks, but they may have gained a player back in the process.

According to multiple reports, defensive end Michael Sam was back in Montreal Wednesday, and is expected to return to team meetings on Sunday.

Sam left the Alouettes back on June 12 for personal reasons, although head coach Jim Popp told The Guardian Thursday he would back with the team at some point.

“I think he will be back,” Popp said. “I’ll be surprised if he is not back. He wants to play. I will be very surprised if he is not back.”

The Alouettes next game is at home Friday, July 3 against the Calgary Stampeders.

The Montreal Gazette's Herb Zurkowsky reports that Sam will take part in team meetings on Sunday and suit up for practice Monday.