McManis’ return lifts special teams
Before defensive end Roy Robertson- Harris hurt his hamstring in Week 7, the 6- 7, 294- pounder was one of the biggest “gunners” in the history of the sport. With Sherrick McManis hurt the week before, the Bears had moved Robertson- Harris outside on punts, where he chased the returner.
When Robertson- Harris got hurt against the Panthers, cornerback DeAndre Houston- Carson was given a greater responsibility on special teams. He had eight tackles over three games.
“That’s good for a season for some people, so he’s been really productive,” special- teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers said.
All three will be healthy Sunday. McManis and Robertson- Harris practiced in full Thursday for the first time since they suffered their hamstring injuries. HoustonCarson, who was only promoted from the practice squad because the Eagles tried to take him off it, has earned his roster spot.
The Bears have bigger problems than special teams, but the return of McManis, a captain and Pro Bowl alternate last year, matters.
“Anytime you’re not able to play, you feel like you could’ve helped make a change,” McManis said.
Long upgraded
For the first time since he hurt his finger against the Saints, guard Kyle Long practiced in full. He’s dealing with a surgically repaired right ankle and a labrum injury in his left shoulder.
“You had the bye week, and we didn’t use him extensively against Green Bay,” coach John Fox said. “He looked good in practice.”
Sims still out
Fox claimed there were “laws against” him detailing the illness that has kept tight end Dion Sims out for more than two full weeks.
“I mean, I’m not being evasive, but I kind of am,” he said. “Yeah. And for the right reason.”
Sims hasn’t practiced since before the Saints game. He exercised Wednesday but didn’t Thursday, Fox said, because he was tired. He’s allowed inside the building and isn’t contagious.
This and that
Linebacker Danny Trevathan ( calf ) and cornerback Bryce Callahan ( knee) did not practice. Linebacker Sam Acho ( shoulder) and offensive lineman Tom Compton ( ankle) were limited.
Lions defensive end Ziggy Ansah missed his fifth consecutive practice with a back injury. He didn’t play against the Browns. Running back Dwayne Washington sat out with a hip injury.
Follow me on Twitter @ patrickfinley.