Cincinatti ? Carson Palmer is ready to play.

With his rebuilt knee holding up in practice, the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback said Thursday that he would play in the next preseason game, stepping on the field and taking a hit for the first time since his injury in the playoffs seven months ago.

Palmer is expected to start against the Green Bay Packers on Monday night, when his left knee will get its biggest test yet.

“I’m going to play,” Palmer said. “Nothing’s changed. We set out this date awhile back, and everything’s been on schedule, and I’ve been fortunate enough to progress from day to day and week to week. So, I’ll be out there for the first time this year.”