Bears’ QB Trubisky day to day with shoulder injury
Chase Daniel promises to be ready to step in at quarterback for Mitchell Trubisky on Thursday when the Chicago Bears play the Detroit Lions. The Bears’ backup might need to clear away some rust. Daniel hasn’t started or played extensively in an NFL game since 2014, and might start for Trubisky because of a right shoulder injury sustained in the fourth quarter of Sunday night’s 25-20 Bears victory over the Minnesota Vikings. “This week is a little bit different just because it’s a short week, but I really haven’t changed the way I prepare,” Daniel said. “I prepare like a starter every week, so for me it’s just another game.” Coach Matt Nagy is remaining hopeful: “I’m staying cautiously optimistic, but I can’t make any promises. I hope he does. But it’s a day-to-day thing for us.” The Bears had walk-through type practices Monday and Tuesday, and on Wednesday have meetings before leaving for Detroit. Nagy wouldn’t describe the injury beyond saying Trubisky is “in pain, which is normal.”
Nagy stressed it isn’t a long-term injury, or one requiring surgery, but the Bears will be prepared if Daniel plays. “I know that Chase, this is one of the reasons why he’s here, if we get in a situation like this where we have to make a decision one way or the other. This is why you have a guy like Chase. “You feel very comfortable with him. Chase understands; he’s the oldest guy on our team (32), so he’s got experience.”
Daniel hasn’t thrown a regularseason pass since 2016. He hasn’t thrown more than two passes in a season since 2014 in Kansas City. However, he has extensive knowledge of the offensive system after being in it from 2013-15 with the Chiefs. Daniel has a 1-1 record as an NFL starter and has completed 51 of 78 for 480 yards with a touchdown pass and an interception. He also played for the Saints, Chiefs and Eagles.
Daniel started at the end of the 2013 season on short notice when Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith suffered a lacerated spleen. Daniel completed 21 of 30 for 200 yards and a touchdown in a 27-24 loss to San Diego.