GOLDMAN READY TO GO VS. LIONS
Bears nose tackle Eddie Goldman is set to play his first real football in 658 days Sunday. He has no injury designation for the game against the Lions after practicing in full the last two days.
Goldman had been limited or out since he hurt one of his knees the Monday before the season opener. The Bears presumed he would return sooner than Week 4, but coach Matt Nagy said he’s eager to get him back.
Nagy wouldn’t say whether Goldman would be on a set snap count, although that seems likely. Before getting hurt, Goldman sat out the 2020 season because of coronavirus concerns. In between, he appeared in one preseason game.
‘‘I think we’re going to see a player who’s going to come out and give it his all,’’ Nagy said. ‘‘I don’t like to put stat lines or anything like that on the guy, but I know this: He had a really, really good week of practice. Now, probably more than anything, it’s his conditioning and just getting used to that game condition. I know he holds himself to play well and puts a lot of accountability on himself to help out, so he’s going to be anxious to get out there.’’
Mack improving
After sitting out the first two practices of the week with a foot injury, outside linebacker Khalil Mack was limited Friday. Nagy characterized that as a good first step toward playing Sunday.
‘‘I think that’s important,’’ he said. ‘‘That’s a good start there.’’
Mack suffered the injury in the first quarter against the Browns, went to the locker room for X-rays and returned to play in the second half.
More injuries
Strong safety Tashaun Gipson, who missed the game against the Browns with
a hamstring injury, is doubtful for Sunday after failing to practice all week.
Receiver Darnell Mooney is questionable with a groin injury but will play. So will tight end Jesse James, who missed two days for personal reasons.
Inside linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe, who hurt his hamstring against the Browns, is out. Cornerback Xavier Crawford (back) is questionable.