Middle linebacker Brian Urlacher did not practice but is expected to play against the Packers on Thursday night at Lambeau Field.
”I think Brian is good to go on everything,” Bears coach Lovie Smith said. ”As far as how it compares from back then, I can’t really say that. I just know that Brian’s going to start the game this week. He’s in good shape. We don’t feel like there’s any issues that he has dealing with the knee. Brian is just like any of the other players as I see it right now. Short week, little sore, but should be ready to go by game time.”
Smith said cornerback Charles Tillman (shin) also did not practice, but he is hopeful Tillman will play against the Packers. Tight end Kyle Adams (shoulder) was limited in practice. Left tackle J’Marcus Webb, who suffered a thumb injury against the Colts, had full participation in practice.
”Besides that, we’re in great shape,” Smith said, regarding the injuries.
How much better Urlacher will be against the Packers is up for debate, considering they are playing four days after beating the Colts. Urlacher had two tackles and one pass defense and sat out most of the second half.
”I think each week, guys get better and improve, from Game 1 to Game 2,” defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli said Tuesday. ”With every player, there’s that step of improvement we look for in each man. I expect all these men to improve.”
Marinelli said Urlacher ”did a nice job” in the opener. ”Each week, guys have a chance to get better and better. Just getting practice. Just practicing football.”
Urlacher was given a scheduled day off Tuesday, so his work will be limited between games.
”Big part of that thing is so much mental,” Marinelli said, ”and he gets a lot of mental work, and he’s done it for so long, and he’s so sharp. And what he brings to that defense is so special.”
