Lake Forest, IL (SportsNetwork.com) – The Chicago Bears will be without a few
injured starters for this weekend’s game against the Atlanta Falcons,
including linebacker Lance Briggs and left offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod.
Both players, as well as outside linebacker Shea McClellin, have been ruled
out for the Week 6 matchup at the Georgia Dome. Briggs hurt his ribs during
last Sunday’s 31-24 loss at Carolina, a game Bushrod sat out due to knee and
ankle issues.
McClellin will miss a fourth straight contest with a broken hand he sustained
in the season opener on Sept. 7.
Chicago did receive good news on two other key players who have sidelined the
past few weeks, as center Roberto Garza and defensive tackle Jeremiah Ratliff
have both been listed as probable after practicing fully for a second straight
day on Friday.
Garza will take the field for the first time since suffering a high ankle
sprain in the Bears’ Week 1 loss to Buffalo. Ratliff has missed the team’s
last three outings with a concussion.
Linebacker Jonathan Bostic would be the top choice to take over Briggs’ spot
if healthy, but the second-year pro did not practice all week because of a
back injury and is considered a game-time decision for Sunday’s clash.
Middle linebacker D.J. Williams (neck) is probable to face the Falcons.
