Bears Coach John Fox: Jay Cutler's Shoulder Injury Not Season-Ending
By Chris Emma--
LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- While coach John Fox wouldn't get into specifics on Jay Cutler's status Wednesday, he did say that the Bears' starting quarterback shoulder injury isn't season-ending.
Cutler wasn't present during the portion of practice open to the media and didn't participate. According to Fox, Cutler is day-to-day -- a term he often uses with injuries.
"He's a tough son of a gun," Fox said. "He doesn't go typical in (rehab) lengths."
Fox wouldn't say whether Cutler has a tear in his shoulder, nor did he confirm whether surgery will eventually be required. He also didn't state when the injury happened in Sunday's 22-16 loss to the Giants at MetLife Stadium.
News of Cutler's injury first came Monday evening, when Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reported that the Bears were evaluating whether it was season-ending. Fox didn't list Cutler as injured Monday. Cutler has since gotten follow-up opinions to his status.
Cutler's status for Sunday's game against the Titans remains up in the air, Fox said. Should he not be made available, Matt Barkley will start.
"Not in my mind being day-to-day," Fox said.
The Bears signed David Fales from the Ravens' practice squad to add depth at quarterback. According to reports, the team targeted the Lions' Jake Rudock, who was signed to their active roster to keep him in house.
Barkley has played just once in a Bears uniform, struggling in the loss to the Packers in Week 7. He finished 6-of-15 for 81 yards and two interceptions in relief of the injured Brian Hoyer.
This time around, Barkley feels prepared to handle his role.
"I'd like to say light years ahead, but definitely more prepared," he said. "Plays are coming out of my mouth just like normal sentences and seeing everything a lot clearer. I love the game plan we have so far. I've definitely made a lot of strides even since then.
"I'm going to be ready. I'm not overthinking it, I'm not overhyped. I'm just going to be me and try to win this game."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.
