Lovie Smith: 'Family First' If Tillman Has To Miss Game
By Adam Hoge-
HALAS HALL (CBS) The Bears have always been in full support of their players missing playing time for family issues and nothing has changed in regards to Charles Tillman possibly missing Sunday's game against the Texans if his wife goes into labor.
Tillman's fourth child is due to be born Monday, posing a possible conflict with Sunday night's huge game against the 7-1 Houston Texans.
"It's family first," Smith said. "If there's something you feel like you need to do for your family, always do that. And we look at that like an injury. If a player can't go, it's the next guy up. Keep going."
Tillman was reluctant to talk about the subject after practice Wednesday, but said if the child is born early enough Sunday morning, he could probably make it to Soldier Field in time for the game.
Elsewhere on the roster, wide receiver Alshon Jeffery did not practice Wednesday, but Smith said "he is definitely getting better." Jeffery has missed three straight games since breaking his hand and was still wearing a brace on his hand at Halas Hall Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Israel Idonije (ankle), Henry Melton (back) and Matt Toeaina (calf) all were limited Wednesday.
"None of them are really serious," Smith said. "Hopefully we'll have everyone back on the field tomorrow."
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