Bears' Bagent to Start Again as Fields's Status Remains Uncertain
ICARO Media Group
LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- The Chicago Bears are set to rely on rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent for the fourth consecutive game as Justin Fields continues to recover from a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand, according to ESPN.com.
Fields, who is listed as doubtful for Thursday night's game against the Carolina Panthers, will not be suiting up, confirmed head coach Matt Eberflus. Despite the doubt, Eberflus stated that Fields is making progress in his recovery and will be given one more day before a final decision is made regarding his participation.
The Bears' medical staff has not cleared Fields, but he has been listed as a limited participant in practice this week, including two days of walk-through sessions. Eberflus reassured that Fields has encountered no setbacks in his thumb recovery and might undergo a pregame workout before the game at Soldier Field.
"Accuracy's improving. He's throwing it better. And he's starting to do more and more and more. So, we'll see where it goes. Right now, we're listing him as doubtful. And we'll see where it goes from there," Eberflus commented on Fields' progress.
During Friday's practice, Fields acknowledged that his grip strength remained a work in progress, and he experienced some pain while gripping the football. Eberflus mentioned that Fields' grip strength, accuracy, and overall functionality are nearing a return.
Looking ahead, the Bears have a mini-bye week after their clash with the Carolina Panthers before they face off against the Detroit Lions. With the additional time, the team expects Fields to continue his throwing exercises and potentially make a comeback in Week 11.
"He's just going to keep ramping up and getting his throws in and getting everything in, as all the guys are going to do," Eberflus explained. "Getting ready for our next game."
In other injury news, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds will miss his second consecutive game due to a knee injury. Right guard Nate Davis is progressing in his recovery from a high ankle sprain and has participated in some running activities, but he will also be absent against the Panthers. Likewise, cornerback Terell Smith will not be available for the game.
On a positive note, running back Khalil Herbert, wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown, and cornerback Josh Blackwell have been full participants in walk-throughs and practice sessions. They are currently within their 21-day window to be activated off injured reserve.
As the Bears prepare to take on the Panthers without Fields under center once again, the team remains optimistic about his progress and the potential for his return in the near future.