Browns vs. Bears 2015: Game time, TV schedule and how to watch online

This one will be a duel of third-string QBs, as backups Johnny Manziel and Jimmy Clausen are both nursing injuries. Warning: it could get ugly.

by Alex Reimer

Sep 3, 2015, 2:51 PM UTC

Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports

The preseason has taken a toll on the Chicago Bears, who have lost a number of starters and key role players over the last several weeks.

Perhaps the most concerning -- and frankly, mystifying -- injury situation is number one wider receiver Alshon Jeffery's status. Though Jeffery has been listed as day-to-day ever since suffering a calf injury Aug. 11, he's been out of action for three weeks. Head coach John Fox has been vague about his status as well, per the Chicago Tribune.

Receivers Eddie Royal and Marquess Wilson have missed practice this week as well, which means backup quarterback David Fales and the newly acquired Zac Dysert may have a thin receiving corps to work with. Jimmy Clausen suffered a concussion in last week's loss to the Bengals, and isn't expected to play Thursday night against the Browns. If Clausen isn't recovered in time for Week 1, the Bears may be scrambling to find a suitable backup to Jay Cutler.

Chicago's secondary is in limbo, too, as safety Ryan Mundy was placed on injured reserve this week. The Bears also cut veteran cornerback Tim Jennings.

The Browns' quarterback situation is just as influx as Chicago's. Johnny Manziel isn't expected to play due to elbow soreness, and Connor Shaw is recovering from thumb surgery. Quarterback Pat Davlin should take most of the snaps for Cleveland Thursday while Manziel and Shaw sit out alongside starter Josh McCown. Terrelle Pryor could factor into the equation as well, but head coach Mike Pettine said this week the Browns will likely limit his reps.

Per usual, there are a number of battles to look out for at the bottom of the roster with Cleveland, too. Dawgs by Nature writes the defensive line, tight end position and secondary are spots to keep an eye on.