Bears' Forte expected to play vs. Packers; Jeffery's status uncertain

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte is expected to play in Thursday's game against the Green Bay Packers.

Forte missed the Bears' past three games due to a sprained MCL.

"I probably could have played last Sunday, but I might not have been able to play coming up this week if something would have happened," Forte said to Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times. "Time heals and stuff. Just a couple of extra days will help."

Jeremy Langford starred in Forte's absence, with 170 rushing yards and three touchdowns in three games. It's eminently possible that the rookie running back could split carries as Forte works his way back into top form.

Alshon Jeffery's status remains uncertain but the Bears' star wide receiver said he feels better after missing Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos due to groin and shoulder ailments.

"Last game was last game, I wasn't feeling pretty well," Jeffery said. "I feel a lot better than I felt last week."

It appears that Jeffery could be a game-time decision.

"I definitely do want to be out there," Jeffery said to Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune. "At the same time, if the training staff sees how I feel and I don't feel too well, I won't be out there. If I'm feeling well, I'll play."