Not that you were expecting anything to the contrary, but Khalil Mack did not practice on Wednesday because of a foot injury.
Reports earlier today were hinting Mack would miss Sunday’s game against the 49ers, with the goal being to use some time off to help heal the injury. And while Head Coach Matt Nagy didn’t offer anything regarding an update to Mack’s situation, the gist put me in the camp of being pessimistic when it comes to the possibility of seeing No. 52 lineup on Sunday. Maybe that is for the best anyway. Think of it this way: An IR stint puts Mack off his feet for four weeks, he misses just three games, and would put him in a place to return on Thanksgiving versus Detroit. That wouldn’t be too bad.
But before we get ahead of ourselves in terms of figuring out when we’ll get the return of the Mack, here is the rest of the week’s first injury report:
#Bears Wednesday injury report: pic.twitter.com/jUd0fkFvdg
— Chicago Bears (@BearsPR) October 27, 2021
Here is a pleasant bit of news: Seven injured Bears were participating in some capacity in Wednesday’s practice.
Among the headliners is defensive lineman Akiem Hicks, whose groin injury has caused him to miss two of the last three games. Hicks had previously been a limited participant the last few Fridays, while not practicing on Wednesday or Thursday. Starting safety Tashaun Gipson Sr., receiver Allen Robinson II, defensive lineman Bilal Nichols, and ace return specialist Jakeem Grant Sr. were limited participants. As was reserve tight end J.P. Holtz. Starting right guard James Daniels begins the week on the injury report as a full practice participant (despite a knee issue).
Seeing all of those names practice in some way, shape, or form to begin the week suggests the arrow is pointing up. Unfortunately, I can’t not circle back to Mack, see that DNP, read this morning’s notes, and think about the big piece of the puzzle who figures to be out this weekend. And maybe longer.