CHICAGO -- The Vikings did not place Sidney Rice on their 53-man roster Saturday, meaning the wide receiver won't make his 2010 debut on Sunday against the Bears at Soldier Field.

Rice, who had hip surgery in late August, has been on the physically unable to perform list all season but has been taking part in practices since early this month and appears to be nearing his return. Rice said he opened it up Thursday in practice and admitted Friday he was sore.

Rice had to be activated by 3 p.m. central on Saturday in order to play against the Bears.

The fact Rice won't play Sunday doesn't mean his season is finished. The Vikings have a roster exemption that enables Rice to continue practicing without counting against the 53-man roster limit until Nov. 24.