Hicks has strained hamstring
Bears defensive lineman Akiem Hicks left Monday night’s loss against the Vikings with a strained right hamstring, coach Matt Nagy said Tuesday.
The Bears missed Hicks. In the fourth quarter, with Hicks on the sideline, Vikings running back Dalvin Cook ran 11 times for 57 yards. He had 19 carries for only 39 yards in the first three quarters. The defensive lineman, though, has an extra week off to hopefully recover.
The news was worse for punt returner Dwayne Harris. Nagy said he was awaiting confirmation that Harris, who muffed a punt Monday, tore his triceps. That would likely end the veteran’s season.
Receiver Anthony Miller returned punts in his place. The Bears have used three different returners since Tarik Cohen tore his ACL in Week 3 — Harris, Miller and Ted Ginn, whom they cut earlier this month.
Wims reinstated
Receiver Javon Wims’ two-game suspension ended Tuesday.
He received a roster exemption from the league, though, meaning the Bears have yet to add him back on the 53-man roster. They must decide whether to do so later this week.
Wims was ejected — and later suspended — for throwing two punches to Saints safety C.J. Gardner- Johnson’s helmet Nov. 1. Gardner- Johnson had torn off Wims’ mouthpiece earlier in the game, for which he was eventually fined. Wims said Gardner- Johnson spat at him, though the safety denied it to reporters.
Receivers coach Mike Furrey had warned his players not to engage with Gardner- Johnson. Wims fought him on the next play.