Khalil Mack’s non-participation in practice earlier in the season was understandable, as limitations due to a knee issue allowed the fearsome pass-rusher to ease up on his workload while still playing on gameday as much as possible.
But seeing Mack pop up as “did not practice” on Friday because of a totally different (back) injury is cause for concern – even if Head Coach Matt Nagy told reporters during his Friday Zoom call that the issue was “soreness” and not a concern. He also said that Mack not practicing was “probably more preventative than anything.” Nevertheless, Mack, who practiced Thursday, sat out on Friday. We’ll continue to monitor his situation as it develops.
As for the rest of the injury report, here it is:
#Bears Friday Injury Report pic.twitter.com/vCvLPVYBEX
— Chicago Bears (@BearsPR) October 23, 2020
Joining Mack as non-participants due to injuries were defensive back Sherrick McManis (hamstring) and slot corner Buster Skrine (ankle). Defensive lineman Akiem Hicks (illness) missed a second consecutive practice. Nagy confirmed Hicks’ illness isn’t COVID-19 related. But whatever it is, it’s enough to keep Hicks off the practice field for consecutive days.
Among the full participants who showed up on the injury report were receiver Javon Wims (ankle), offensive linemen Jason Spriggs (thumb), Alex Bars (shoulder), and Rashaad Coward (finger), defensive lineman Brent Urban (knee), and safety Eddie Jackson (shoulder). Resting veterans Ted Ginn Jr., Jimmy Graham, and Danny Trevathan were all full-go at Friday’s practice. Safety Deon Bush (hamstring) and defensive lineman Bilal Nichols (knee) were limited.
Overall, I’ll have a better grasp of things when the final injury report is released on Saturday. From there, we’ll be in a better spot to diagnose things ahead of the Bears’ trip to Los Angeles to play on Monday Night Football.