The Chicago Bears are limping to the finish line, dealing with a slew of injuries as they prepare for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
Seven players were held out of practice Wednesday at Halas Hall and defensive end Julius Peppers did not practice for reasons unrelated to his health.
Linebacker Lance Briggs (ankle), defensive tackle Henry Melton (shin), wide receiver Devin Hester (ankle), running back Marion Barber (calf) and tight end Kellen Davis (back) were absent.
Coach Lovie Smith expressed optimism Briggs will return to practice Thursday and said Melton, who missed all last week, participated in the walk-though. The Bears are hopeful they have Melton back to face a banged-up Packers offensive line.
Once again, quarterback Jay Cutler and running back Matt Forte topped the list of players on the sidelines.
“A lot of people have injuries,” Smith said. “They’re part of it, especially this time of the season. We’ve had opportunities even without those guys. We’ve lost four games and we’ve led in all four, been ahead going into the second half on two of them, and those were without those guys. We just hadn’t gotten the job done for whatever reason and hopefully we can right the ship and finish out strong. As much as anything it’s just about this game and when you’ve had disappointment, you’re glad that you’re playing your rival.”
Meanwhile, receiver Johnny Knox, who suffered a season-ending back injury in Sunday’s loss to Seattle, is scheduled to be released from the hospital Saturday after undergoing surgery Monday, according to a league source.
The Packers held out right tackle Bryan Bulaga (knee) and wide receiver Greg Jennings (knee). Neither player is expected to play Sunday. Defensive end Ryan Pickett (concussion) did not practice. Left tackle Chad Clifton (back/hamstring) was among four players who were limited.
Contributing: Vaughn McClure
bmbiggs@tribune.com
Twitter @BradBiggs
