The Chicago Bears are trying to remain as evasive as possible. Just a few days after it was announced Jay Cutler would miss two weeks following a hamstring strain, head coach John Fox is dancing around the subject. Cutler has not practiced this week since getting taken out early in Week 2, but Fox is making it clear that it is a possibility the quarterback seeing playing time in Week 3 against the Seattle Seahawks.
Fox spoke with the media on Wednesday to discuss the status of the quarterback situation. It has been assumed that Jimmy Clausen would be the team's starting quarterback for Week 3. However, when asked about the situation, Fox simply said it was day by day.
"We're just taking it day to day," Fox said, via the Chicago Tribune. "We'll see what tomorrow brings. And we don't rule anybody out for games until Friday. I don't know how they pick coin flips or how they do at the track. I don't know how they would know if we don't. If [Jay's] healthy, he starts, if not Jimmy will start."
This is certainly a much different stance that was taken when Cutler was ruled out for the next two weeks. It could be good news for Bears' fans if Cutler is able to play considering the talent drop off between the two players is very steep. If Clausen is set to play, he is basically auditioning for the future. It is no secret the Bears are considering their quarterback situation for years to come and Clausen is fighting for a chance to be a part of it.
Quarterback issues aside, the biggest question for the Bears is the health of Alshon Jeffery who was ruled inactive for Week 2 following a hamstring injury. According to CBSSports.com, Jeffery did not participate in practice on Wednesday putting his Week 3 status in jeopardy. The Bears need Jeffery on the field even if he is limited. It was very clear the passing game struggled without him taking up a cornerback as Eddie Royal and Marquess Wilson did their best to hold down the fort. With Jeffery distracting the defense, the two wide receivers struggled to be productive and it could be much of the same against a tough secondary like Seattle's.
Matt Forte will be a big factor in Week 3. The workhorse running back will relied upon heavily to help Clausen or Cutler out. Jacquizz Rodgers will also be very important as both a running back and passing-down receiver. The Bears will try and be as dynamic as possible to help the quarterback out.
