Jay Cutler cleared to play Sunday against Vikings

Nam Y. Huh/AP Photo

Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was cleared Saturday by an independent neurologist, the final hurdle for his return to the football field.

Cutler is expected to start Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field, according to two league sources.

Cutler missed last Monday’s 32-7 loss in San Francisco after suffering a concussion late in the second quarter of the 13-6 loss to the Houston Texans the week before. Cutler was listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report, but the Bears were confident he was ready to play again, pending approval from the independent neurologist.

“It’s always good to have your starter back,” Bears running back Matt Forte said. “Jay is very comfortable in this offense and in the passing game especially. We’ve got to get the running game going to help out the passing game.”

Cutler practiced again Friday — doing more than he did the day before — as he continues to make his way back from his concussion.

On Friday, Bears coach Lovie Smith was very encouraged by Cutler’s progress.

“He’s getting better,” Smith said. “He was able to do more [Friday] than he did [Thursday]. He’s looking good.

“It’s looking better.”