DALE Morris has started running outside again after his ACL injury as he targets a comeback in the second half of the season.

Morris' career looked in doubt in mid-March after he ruptured the ACL in his left knee at training.

Having already completed one surgery-free comeback from a ACL injury in his right knee in 2018, Morris again avoided the knife in a bid to speed up his return to the field.

After a rehab regime that includes litres of bone broth, the Dogs are confident that Morris is on track to play again this year.

GIVE A DOG A BONE Morris' secret recipe to fast-track return

"Dale's back running outside and completing an intensive block of strength training," Bulldogs medical services manager Chris Bell said.

"We remain optimistic that he’s going to make a return in the second half of the season."

Morris' ability to play under duress has become the stuff of legend at the Bulldogs.

Apart from his remarkable recovery last year, he played the entire 2016 finals series - including the stunning premiership victory - with two broken vertebrae in his back.

The Dogs also believe defender Matthew Suckling is a chance to face Brisbane in Ballarat in round eight, while Lin Jong could be three weeks away after recovering from a burst appendix.