Chicago Sun-Times

Bears have a sore receiving corps

- BY ADAM L. JAHNS Staff Reporter Follow me on Twitter @ adamjahns. Email: ajahns@ suntimes. com

Matt Barkley’s biggest test as the Bears’ starting quarterbac­k will come Sunday against the Lions at Ford Field. And he might be down a wide receiver or two.

Eddie Royal ( toe) and Marquess Wilson ( groin) did not participat­e in practice Wednesday. Josh Bellamy ( shoulder) also was limited. Royal’s toe injury, in particular, has become more problemati­c the last two weeks.

He was limited to 12 snaps in Week 12 against the Titans and was inactive last Sunday against the 49ers. Royal, 30, was wearing a walking boot on his left foot in the locker room.

The Bears’ top three receivers at practice were Cameron Meredith, rookie Daniel Braverman and kick returner Deonte Thompson.

Barkley, though, remained upbeat.

“I’m confident in what we have prepared for [ the Lions],” Barkley said. “It will be a challenge. But if we’re consistent and stick to what we do and move the ball just like we have been, then we’ll have things open.”

Acho honored

Outside linebacker Sam Acho was named the Bears’ nominee for the 2016 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which recognizes a player’s efforts in the community. The winner is announced during Super Bowl week.

Acho, a six- year veteran, has a unique story. He has gone on mission trips to Nigeria since he was a teenager and is raising funds to build hospitals in Nigeria through Living Hope Christian Ministries. It’s an organizati­on founded by his parents, who are from Nigeria.

Injury rundown

Left guard Josh Sitton was a full participan­t in practice. He was relegated to a backup role against the 49ers after sitting out against the Titans.

Outside linebacker Pernell McPhee ( knee), cornerback Tracy Porter ( knee) and reserve offensive tackle Mike Adams ( back) did not practice.

The following players were limited: outside linebacker Willie Young ( knee), linebacker Jonathan Anderson ( hamstring), safety Adrian Amos ( foot) and cornerback Deiondre’ Hall ( ankle).

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