NEWSLETTER
We won’t get a full injury report until after practice at Halas Hall concludes, but Chicago Bears Head Coach Matt Eberflus clued reporters in on what looks to be some positive developments on the injury front.
Firstly, receivers Velus Jones Jr. and N’Keal Harry appear to be on the up-swing:
Jones was back at practice last week, albeit in a limited capacity. But despite practicing with limitations, Jones remained inactive on game day and has yet to make his pro debut. However, that could change on Sunday against the New York Giants. And what a time for it, too. Chicago just lost starting receiver Byron Pringle to IR and the depth chart is thinning out. Plus, Jones could be helpful in a return game that just hasn’t taken off just yet.
This isn’t to say that we want to put too much on Jones’ plate too soon upon returning from a hamstring injury. Instead, this is to say that there are opportunities to get him onto the field in a variety of ways if he gets the medical green light.
No, Harry won’t be joining Jones just yet. After starting the year on injured reserve, Harry isn’t eligible for activation until next week at the earliest. Even still … this is all an important step in the right direction. Harry had surgery to repair a high-ankle sprain that was expected to knock his out until November. That we’re in late September and Harry is progressing well is a testament to the marvels of modern medicine. And let’s not forget Harry’s human spirit to work their way back from surgery.
There was even an update regarding David Montgomery’s status:
That the Bears haven’t put Montgomery on injured reserve to this point feels like an encouraging sign. Although, Eberflus wouldn’t rule out an IR trip when he last discussed the issue on Monday. I suppose Bears could always wait until the end of the week to make that move. Doing so would allow them to rummage through the waiver wire between now and Saturday for help if they need it. Keep in mind that Chicago is rostering just three running backs (Montgomery, Khalil Herbert, Trestan Ebner) among the 53 active players. But Darrynton Evans waits in the wings on the practice squad (just in case).
Nevertheless, I like the good news update. Keep ’em coming!
