Tempe, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker John Abraham has decided to return to the team after taking a brief leave of absence to deal with a concussion, head coach Bruce Arians announced during his Monday press conference.

Abraham was placed on an exemption list last week as the 15-year veteran contemplated retirement after experiencing concussion-related symptoms. The 2013 Pro Bowl selection sustained the injury in Arizona's season-opening win over San Diego.

Arians said Abraham will still have to pass the NFL's mandated concussion protocol during the week, but will start Sunday's game against San Francisco if he is medically cleared.

The NFL's active leader with 133 1/2 career sacks, Abraham had 11 1/2 to lead the Cardinals last season and was chosen to his fifth career Pro Bowl.

Arizona did manage a pair of sacks of Eli Manning as well as two interceptions without Abraham on the field in Sunday's 25-14 win over the New York Giants.