The Chicago Bears will have to take the field Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals without top wide receiver Alshon Jeffery. NFL Media's Ian Rapoport reports Jeffery's hamstring and calf will keep him out of action, with the hope being that he can play next week.
Bears WR Alshon Jeffery won’t play against the Cardinals
Hamstring and calf injuries will reportedly keep the star wide receiver out of the lineup.
Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Jeffery, 25, was active in the Bears' season opening loss against the Packers last Sunday, playing 60 of a possible 77 snaps. He caught five passes for 78 yards, but never looked as if he was at 100 percent. The 2012 second-round pick, who missed the entire preseason because of a calf injury, sat out Friday's practice after suiting up Wednesday and Thursday. Bears running back Matt Forte told ESPN.com Friday Jeffery's absence is "obviously going to hurt."
How much it hurts will depend on how wideouts Eddie Royal and Marquess Wilson play in Jeffery's absence. Tight end Martellus Bennett is expected to be one of Jay Cutler's go-to passing targets as well.
Forte broke the NFL record last Sunday for receptions by a running back and will probably be one of the focal points of the Bears’ offense yet again Sunday. He gained 166 yards from scrimmage last week on 24 carries and five catches.
The Cardinals' stout run defense, which held the Saints to 54 yards on 20 carries in Week 1, could complicate matters. Chicago may have to make a conceited effort to get Forte involved Sunday, even if it doesn't immediately produce results.
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