Marshall, Peppers Sit Out First Preseason Game
By Adam Hoge-
CHARLOTTE (CBS) -- Brandon Marshall and Julius Peppers are among a number of Bears players sitting out Friday's night preseason opener against the Panthers.
Marshall has received days off during training camp as a precaution after offseason hip surgery, so it is not at all surprising that he is not playing tonight. The Bears are officially calling it a "coach's decision". Julius Peppers suffered a hamstring injury last Saturday and has not practiced since, although he was excused completely from practice Tuesday and Wednesday. He was out on the field Friday jogging during warmups and the injury does not appear serious. His absence is also considered a "coach's decision" because he did not practice all week.
Meanwhile, it appears left tackle Jermon Bushrod will start the game. He participated fully with the first team during warmups.
Other Bears players who are not playing Friday include:
DE Corey Wootton (tight calf)
DL Jamaal Anderson (knee)
OT Jonathan Scott (knee)
LB D.J. Williams (calf)
WR Earl Bennett (concussion, did not make the trip)
TE Kyle Adams (hamstring)
Adam Hoge covers the Bears for CBSChicago.com and is a frequent contributor to 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter at @AdamHoge.
