The biggest news for the Bears today was coach Matt Eberfuss announcing that Justin Fields would not start against the Panthers on Thursday Night Football because he is not medically clear to play, then leaving the door open for Fields to return based on how he progresses on Thursday. I be
“There’s only a little time left but again, we’ll announce his exit when he does,” Eberflus said. “At the moment, we still list him as questionable.”
Reading between the lines of Eberflus’ entire press conference, it seems unlikely that Fields will play against the Panthers. The head coach was less ambiguous about the other players’ situations. Tremaine Edmonds (knee), Nate Davis (ankle), and Khary Blassingame (concussion) are all out. Backup cornerback Terrell Smith also has mononucleosis.
With Edmunds out, Jack Sanborn will make his second start at middle linebacker. Sanborn was an outstanding defensive player in the Week 9 loss to the Saints. Tevin Jenkins will replace Davis. Like Sanborn, Jenkins made big positive impacts, especially as a run blocker, during his time at right guard. The Bears tried several players as a lead blocker when Blasingame went down, including tight end Robert Tonyan. It will be interesting to see how the Bears adjust their offense over several days to prepare for life without a fullback.
Finally, wide receiver Equanimus St. Brown and cornerback Josh Blackwell practiced fully, but remain on injured reserve. Each man is questionable to play, but each man will need to be returned to the active roster before they can suit up.
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