Kentucky senior defensive end Vincent ?Sweet Pea? Burns has a small cartilage tear in his knee and will undergo arthroscopic surgery on Thursday, Coach Rich Brooks has announced.

The procedure will be performed at UK Hospital by Dr. Darren Johnson. Burns hopes to return to practice the week of the Louisville game and play against the Cardinals in the season opener on Sept. 5.

Burns, who was named first-team All-Southeastern Conference by four selectors a year ago, made 72 tackles in 2003 and led the SEC with 18 tackles for loss.

Burns has been named to three preseason national award watch lists, including the Lombardi Award for the top lineman, the Bronko Nagurski Award for best defensive player and the Ted Hendricks Award for best defensive end.