The clock finally is ticking for Marquess Wilson. The second-year receiver practiced on Wednesday, officially starting his return from short-term injured reserve.
“I feel pretty good,” said Wilson, who broke his right collarbone during training camp and required surgery. “It felt good getting back in the swing of things and getting around the guys and actually practicing a little.
“I feel my wind was pretty good for the most part and just looking to improve each day I’m out here.”
Wilson said he didn’t know what the timetable for his return would be.
“I would love to play this Sunday [against the Green Bay Packers], but it’s not up to me,” he said.
Either way, Wilson’s 21-day clock has started, according to league rules. The Bears have 21 calendar days to activate him or shut him down for the rest of the season. Coach Marc Trestman said Wilson will be evaluated by the medical staff on a daily basis.
“I still have to prove myself all over again,” said Wilson, who displayed chemistry with quarterback Jay Cutler before getting injured at camp. “I can’t come in thinking that [the No. 3 receiver spot is] just mine all over. I have to work for something I want.”
Line dancing
Just a couple days after practicing at left guard, Jordan Mills was back at his usual right tackle spot in practice. That meant more work for Michael Ola at left guard, which remains open with Matt Slauson (torn pectoral muscle) out. Trestman made it clear that nothing is set in stone. Backup center Brian de la Puente also worked at guard.
Still, Mills’ issues at right tackle — which include team highs in sacks and hurries allowed in Pro Football Focus’ reviews — have become tougher to bear for an up-and-down offense. Mills has been bothered by a sore foot, but practiced in full.
“We’re going to give [Mills] work at both spots,” Trestman said. “We’re going to reassess practice and we’ll see how we move [Thursday].”
Getting better
Linebackers Lance Briggs (ribs) and Jon Bostic (back) had full participation in practice for the first time since getting injured against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 5.
“It will be good to have them back,” Trestman said. “This is a game that’s going to be played against three wideouts a lot of the time and to have our nickel personnel, our nickel backers back will help.”
Cornerback Kyle Fuller (hip pointer/broken hand) and special teamer Danny McCray also fully participated.
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