Jay Cutler Returns To Practice In Limited Role; Bears Coach John Fox Out Sick
By Chris Emma--
LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- Looking to rebound from an 0-3 start, the Bears returned to practice Wednesday with quarterback Jay Cutler rejoining the team.
Only nine days removed from a thumb sprain, Cutler was seen throwing the football during the portion of practice open to the media. The team listed him as limited in practice.
Cutler suffered the injury during the third quarter of Chicago's loss to Philadelphia in Week 2. He didn't practice during the week leading up to Sunday's contest with the Cowboys, though the team listed him as doubtful and suggested Cutler's status would be decided pregame in Dallas. Cutler didn't throw the football pregame.
Initially, Cutler was suspected to miss two to three weeks, according to several reports. Last season, Cutler suffered a hamstring strain in Week 2 and returned for Week 4 after being suspected of missing a month.
Wednesday brought similar misfortunes on the injury front, with 15 players listed on the team's report. Defensive lineman Eddie Goldman (ankle), running back Jeremy Langford (ankle), linebacker Danny Trevathan (thumb), safety Harold Jones-Quartey (concussion) and running back Ka'Deem Carey (hamstring) all missed practice.
Receiver Alshon Jeffery (knee), linebacker Jerrell Freeman (ribs), guard Kyle Long (shoulder), cornerback Tracy Porter (knee), guard Josh Sitton (shoulder), defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard (toe), linebacker Willie Young (knee), defensive lineman Mitch Unrein (knee) and defensive back Sherrick McManis (hamstring) were all limited in practice, in addition to Cutler.
The Bears did have one more notable absence Wednesday, with coach John Fox not at Halas Hall as he battles a stomach bug. Fox is expected to be back to work Thursday.
Kickoff between the Bears and Lions (1-2) comes at noon Sunday from Soldier Field.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.
