Description: Linebacker Brian Urlacher has retired from the NFL after 13 seasons with the Bears.
Insight: The future Hall of Fame linebacker might be convinced to play if an opportunity opens up during the season, but at this point in his career he's not the factor he once was. In 13 seasons he amassed 1,229 tackles, 41.5 sacks, 22 INTs and 12 FF.
Description: Bears wideout Brandon Marshall, who underwent hip surgery in January, is reportedly running again, according to a Chicago Sun-Times report.
Insight: Marshall set career highs in catches (113), receiving yards (1,466) and touchdowns (11) in 2012. He has had similar procedures on both hips in the past so this shouldn't be a problem going into next season. He's currently the third receiver off the board in mock drafts at fantasyfootballcalculator.com (behind Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green).
Description: Bears wideout Devin Hester will apparently return to his role as a return specialist, according to the Chicago Sun-Times report.
Insight: Hester had 23 catches for 242 yards and a touchdown last season and even at his best was never better than a No. 3 fantasy wideout. He has returned five kickoffs and 12 punts for touchdowns in his career.
Description: Linebacker Brian Urlacher called the one-year, $2 million offer he received from the Bears a "slap in the face" Thursday on Mike and Mike in the Morning.
Insight: Urlacher was hoping to get something in the $3.5 to 4 million range. He's hoping to play at least one more season but if he doesn't get an offer to his liking it's possible that Urlacher could simply call it a career.
Description: The Bears have announced that they are moving on from linebacker Brian Urlacher after they were unable to agree on a new contract.
Insight: The Bears tweeted that "both sides will move forward." The linebacker finishes his Bears career with 1,362 total tackles (1,047 solo), 41.5 sacks, 22 interceptions, 12 forced fumbles and four touchdowns.
Description: The Vikings are keeping tabs on free agent linebacker Brian Urlacher.
Insight: This report comes via the Chicago Tribune. Even at age 34, Urlacher managed to have a pretty productive season in 2012, collecting 68 tackles in 12 games. Heading to a divisional rival late in his career would be very Brett Favre-esque of Urlacher but the feeling around the league is that he'll probably wind up back in Chicago.
Description: According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Bears have reached an agreement on a four-year deal with tight end Martellus Bennett.
Insight: Bennett caught 55 passes for 626 yards and five touchdowns for New York last season. Chicago hasn't used its tight ends much in the offense since Greg Olsen left but that's likely due to its personnel at that position and issues on the offensive line that forced tight ends to pass block.
Description: The Bears have placed the franchise tag on defensive tackle Henry Melton.
Insight: That buys the Bears more time to work out a contract extension. Melton set a new career-high in tackles with 43 last season though his sack total fell from seven in 2011 to just six in 2012.
Description: Bears wideout Johnny Knox has told the Chicago Sun-Times that his professional football career is over.
Insight: Knox never fully recovered from the spinal fusion surgery he had in December 2011 to repair nerve damage. The 26-year-old will hang up his cleats after just three NFL seasons. In that time, Knox was able to amass 2,214 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns with his most productive season coming in 2010 (51 grabs, 960 yards, five TD).
Description: Bears wideout Brandon Marshall won't play in the Pro Bowl this season since he needs arthroscopic surgery on his hip. SOURCE: USA Today
Insight: Marshall set career highs in catches, receiving yards and touchdowns in 2012. He has had similar procedures on both hips in the past but it shouldn't be a problem going into next season.
Description: Chicago cornerback Tim Jennings' interception Sunday against the Lions was his ninth of the season.
Insight: The NFL's interception leader is headed to his first Pro Bowl, though Jennings would probably rather be going to the postseason. Stevie Brown of the New York Giants and Seattle's Richard Sherman tied for second in the NFL in interceptions with eight a piece.
Description: Bears wideout Devin Hester is pondering retirement, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Insight: When asked if football is still as fun for him as it used to be, Hester said, "It's not." If this is it for the 30-year-old, he'll go down as one of the finest return men in league history. Hester's 13 punt return touchdowns are a league record.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler completed 18-of-31 passes for 257 yards and one touchdown with zero turnovers Sunday. He also rushed for 29 yards as the Bears improved to 10-6 with a win over Detroit (4-12, 8 straight losses).
Insight: We know how valuable Cutler is to the Bears; Chicago's offense slowed to a crawl when Jason Campbell had to take over. However, Cutler is just not a very good fantasy quarterback. He only had multiple touchdowns in five of his 15 games, including just one in each of the final four games.
Description: Despite seeing 14 targets Sunday, Bears receiver Brandon Marshall only could muster five receptions for 42 yards.
Insight: Marshall already set career highs in receptions, receiving yardage and touchdowns prior to Week 17. He'll end up with 118 catches for 1,508 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Description: Chicago halfback Matt Forte ran for 103 yards on 24 carries and picked up a short touchdown Sunday against the Lions.
Insight: With a win necessary to keep Chicago's playoff hopes alive, Forte played through a nagging ankle injury. He finishes the season with 1,094 rushing yards on 248 carries, 340 receiving yards on 44 catches and six total touchdowns. It's the third 1,000-yard season of his career.
Description: Chicago halfback Matt Forte will be in the lineup Sunday against Detroit despite an ankle injury.
Insight: This one's a must win for the Bears so there was never much doubt about Forte's availability for this game. Forte (991 yards) is on the cusp of his third career 1,000 yard rushing season. He totaled 96 yards on 22 carries the last time he faced the Lions back in Week 7.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) says that he will play Sunday against the Lions. SOURCE: ESPNChicago.com
Insight: Forte has only missed one game this year but he has exited with an injury to his ankle in three separate games. The running back has been getting treatment away from the Bears' practice facility this week and he will likely be well below 100 percent. However, with no viable backups on Chicago (Michael Bush is on I.R.), Forte should see a normal workload in a game the Bears need to win. He ran for 96 yards on 22 carries against Detroit in Week 7.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) practiced in a limited session Thursday. SOURCE: Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune
Insight: Forte has only missed one game this year but he has exited with an injury to his ankle in three separate games. Unlike the first two, Forte managed to put together a solid fantasy day before leaving Sunday's game, rushing for 88 yards on 12 carries and scoring once. Fantasy owners might want to look in another direction for Week 17 since the running back isn't 100 percent.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte, who left Sunday's game against the Cardinals, is questionable for Sunday's game against Detroit with a right ankle injury.
Insight: Forte has only missed one game this year but he has exited with an injury to his ankle in three separate games. Unlike the first two, Forte managed to put together a solid fantasy day before leaving Sunday's game, rushing for 88 yards on 12 carries and scoring once. Armando Allen and Kahlil Bell would carry the workload.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte left Sunday's game against the Cardinals after once again aggravating his right ankle injury. He won't return.
Insight: Forte has only missed one game this year but he has exited with an injury to his ankle in three separate games. Unlike the first two, Forte managed to put together a solid fantasy day before leaving Sunday's game, rushing for 88 yards on 12 carries and scoring once. If Forte cannot play next week he will fall less than 10 yards shy of 1,000 yards for the second straight season.
Description: Bears cornerback Tim Jennings will make his return from an injured shoulder Sunday against Arizona.
Insight: Even after missing two games, Jennings still leads the NFL with eight interceptions. Jennings should be headed to the Pro Bowl after the season.
Description: Even with Michael Bush on injured reserve, the team is unlikely to turn to starting tailback Matt Forte in goal-line situations. According to ProFootballWeekly.com, the Bears do not have faith that Forte will get the job done in those situations.
Insight: Chicago just re-signed Kahlil Bell, who saw some goal-line touches with the first-team offense in training camp, and is considering him for the role Sunday. Those looking for Forte to produce a huge week with multiple touchdowns might be disappointed.
Description: Bears running back Michael Bush is likely done for the season due to a rib injury, according to beat writer Sean Jensen.
Insight: With Bush injured, starter Matt Forte saw 25 touches last Sunday and combined for 133 yards rushing and receiving. Move Forte a little higher up the charts for Week 16.
Description: Bears wideout Earl Bennett, who suffered a concussion against the Seahawks in Week 13, has been ruled out for Week 15, according to the Bears website.
Insight: Bennett has recorded just 23 receptions for 250 and one TD this season. Owned in less than five percent of all leagues his absence won't cause much of a problem. Alshon Jeffery is the second best receiver on the Bears behind Brandon Marshall and the only other Chicago receiver with any fantasy value.
Description: Chicago cornerback Tim Jennings, who sprained his shoulder late in Week 13's game against Seattle, will miss his second consecutive game.
Insight: Jennings still leads the NFL with eight picks this season, so obviously losing him is a huge blow to the Chicago secondary, particularly when facing Aaron Rodgers and the Packers fleet of talented receivers.
Description: The Bears have signed Olindo Mare to replace Robbie Gould.
Insight: The 39-year-old Mare kicked for Carolina last season, going 22-for-28 in field goal tries and 44-for-45 on extra point attempts. He's not going to get you many 50-yard field goals as he's attempted just four over the past three seasons, making one of them.
Description: Bears kicker Robbie Gould, who injured himself in pregame warmup before Sunday's game against Minnesota (strained left calf), has been placed on IR, ending his season.
Description: Bears PK Robbie Gould injured himself in pregame warmup for Sunday's game against Minnesota, but said he would be fine for Week 15.
Insight: Gould didn't kickoff or attempt any long field goals, but managed to get through Sunday with the sore calf. He should be ready for the game with Green Bay, though he may not kick many 50-yarders.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who left Sunday's game with a stiff neck says he'll be ready for Week 15 against Green Bay, according to a Chicago Sun-Times report.
Insight: Jason Campbell finished last Sunday's game. We've already seen that the Bears have no offensive production when Cutler is out of the lineup so fantasy owners of Brandon Marshall and Matt Forte hope Cutler will return next weekend.
Description: A great day got even better Sunday when Bears receiver Brandon Marshall caught a touchdown with 1:48 left in the fourth quarter. Marshall finished with 10 receptions for 160 yards on the day.
Insight: Marshall has had three consecutive games with double-digit receptions and now has 101 on the season in just 13 games. He's also set a new career high already with 1,342 yards. He's four receptions and two touchdowns away from setting new career benchmarks in those categories.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte turned in his highest rushing yardage total in five games with 85 Sunday against the Vikings. Forte added six receptions for 34 yards.
Insight: Forte has faced some tough defenses in the past five games, going against Houston, San Francisco, Seattle and Minnesota twice. He'll get a break against the Packers in Week 15.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler said after the game that he was dealing with a stiff neck and considered himself day-to-day.
Insight: Jason Campbell finished the game, going 6-of-9 for 64 yards and a touchdown. We've already seen that the Bears have no offensive production when Cutler is out of the lineup and fantasy owners of Brandon Marshall and Matt Forte hope he'll Cutler will return next weekend.
Description: Chicago receiver Alshon Jeffery, who participated fully in Friday's practice, is active for Sunday against the Vikings.
Insight: The rookie wideout missed the Bears' last two games after receiving a knee scope. He may get a few targets but Brandon Marshall is still the only Chicago receiver worth owning in fantasy.
Description: Chicago linebacker Brian Urlacher (hamstring) has a Grade 2 hamstring tear that usually requires 3-6 weeks of recovery time. SOURCE: Adam Schefter, ESPN
Insight: If Urlacher has a quick recovery he could return for the final regular season game. The worst case scenario obviously is that he misses the entire postseason.
Description: Chicago receiver Alshon Jeffery participated fully in Friday's practice and is expected to play Sunday against the Vikings.
Insight: The rookie wideout missed the Bears' last two games after receiving a knee scope. He may get a few targets but Brandon Marshall is still the only Chicago receiver worth owning in fantasy.
Description: Chicago cornerback Tim Jennings, who sprained his shoulder late in Sunday's game against Seattle, will miss Week 14 against Minnesota.
Insight: Jennings leads the NFL with eight picks this season, so obviously losing him is a crushing blow to the Chicago secondary, but the Vikings without Percy Harvin aren't a big threat to win the game through the air.
Description: Bears wideout Earl Bennett, whosuffered a concussion Sunday against the Seahawks, has been ruled out for Week 14, according to the Bears website.
Insight: Bennett has recorded just 23 receptions for 250 and one TD this season. Owned in less than five percent of all leagues his absence won't cause much of a problem.
Description: Chicago linebacker Brian Urlacher (hamstring) will miss three games with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. SOURCE: Chicago Tribune
Insight: Urlacher could miss the rest of the regular season and try to return for the playoffs, but a return for the final regular season game on Dec. 30 is a possibility if the Bears haven't clinched a playoff spot yet.
Description: Despite the ankle injury, Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) receiving the majority of the playing time against Seattle. Forte was on the field for 48 snaps to 13 for Michael Bush.
Insight: The numbers are saying if Forte is dressed and active then he is the only Bears running back with fantasy value.
Description: Chicago cornerback Tim Jennings sprained his shoulder late in Sunday's game against Seattle.
Insight: Jennings leads the NFL with eight picks this season, so obviously losing him would be a crushing blow to the Chicago secondary. His status is up in the air for Week 14's game against Minnesota.
Description: Chicago linebacker Brian Urlacher injured his right hamstring during Sunday's loss to Seattle.
Insight: Urlacher has a history of playing through injuries so we wouldn't expect him to miss Sunday's game in Minnesota unless it's something serious.
Description: Bears wideout Earl Bennett suffered a concussion Sunday against the Seahawks according to ESPN Chicago.
Insight: Bennett has recorded a mere 23 receptions this season and is currently owned in just 1.6 percent of ESPN fantasy leagues. Bennett's absence will only strengthen Brandon Marshall's already booming fantasy value.
Description: Chicago wideout Brandon Marshall had another outstanding game Sunday against Seattle. He finished the afternoon with a season-best 165 receiving yards on 10 catches.
Insight: Marshall has had a fabulous year and is already nearing a new career-high in receiving yards. He'll face the Vikings in Week 14, a team Marshall racked up 92 yards against earlier in the season.
Description: Bears receiver Earl Bennett has been taken out of the game to undergo a concussion test.
Insight: Bennett reeled in a 12-yard touchdown in the first quarter for his only catch of the game. Brandon Marshall has been getting most of the targets on passing plays anyway so this shouldn't have much of an impact on quarterback Jay Cutler.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) said he plans on playing Sunday against the Seahawks. SOURCE: Sean Jensen, Chicago Sun-Times
Insight: We'll see if the Bears intend to play him. The running back practiced on a limited basis Thursday. Fantasy owners should keep Michael Bush on stand-by.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte's ankle injury is not severe and likely won't threaten his long-term status. SOURCE: Jason La Canfora, CBSSports.com
Insight: Forte's status for Sunday's game versus Seattle in up in the air but it has to be considered a good sign that he's yet to be ruled out. The Bears can afford to be careful with Forte since they have Michael Bush.
Description: Coach Lovie Smith would not give any details about Bears' running back Matt Forte's ankle injury at the Monday press conference. Forte is questionable for Sunday's game against Seattle with a right ankle injury suffered against Minnesota.
Insight: It's the same ankle where he suffered an ankle sprain earlier this season. Michael Bush scored twice from in close against Minnesota and would get the majority of the workload if Forte can play.
Description: The Bears put RG Lance Louis on the IR after he suffered a torn left ACL while attempting to block the Vikings' Jared Allen.
Insight: Chicago is woefully short-handed on the offensive line which can't be good news for fantasy owners of Jay Cutler, Matt Forte, Michael Bush and Brandon Marshall.
Description: Bears' running back Matt Forte is questionable for Sunday's game against Seattle with a right ankle injury suffered against Minnesota.
Insight: It's the same ankle where he suffered an ankle sprain earlier this season. Michael Bush scored twice from in close against Minnesota and would get the majority of the workload if Forte can play.
Description: Bears cornerback Charles Tillman was one of six Bears starters to suffer injuries Sunday, but his ankle is expected to be fine. SOURCE: ProFootballTalk.com
Insight: Tillman is an important cog in the Bears' ballhawking defense. The veteran cornerback has forced seven fumbles, picked off two passes and scored two touchdowns this season. There's no word yet on the status of linebacker Lance Briggs or running back Matt Forte, both of who also suffered ankle injuries Sunday.
Description: Bears receiver Brandon Marshall enjoyed having Jay Cutler back in action Sunday against the Vikings. Marshall caught 12 passes for 92 yards.
Insight: Marshall surpassed 1,000 yards for the sixth straight season. The 6-foot-4 receiver is on pace for a career-high 118 catches.
Description: Bears running back Michael Bush scored two touchdowns Sunday against the Vikings and might find himself with a larger role going forward if Matt Forte (ankle) has to miss time with his latest injury.
Insight: Forte left Sunday's game versus Minnesota after injuring the same ankle he sprained earlier this season. Prior to Sunday, Bush hadn't crossed the goal line since Week 3.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has passed his final concussion test. He'll be active for Sunday's game against the Vikings. SOURCE: Jason La Canfora, CBS Sports.
Insight: Fantasy owners can let out a sigh of relief. Cutler threw for 267 yards and two touchdowns in his one game against Minnesota last season.
Description: John Clayton of ESPN believes Jay Cutler will be ready to play Sunday against the Vikings. Cutler missed Week 11's game against the 49ers because of a concussion.
Insight: He's meeting with a neurologist today to determine whether he'll be able to play or not. Jason Campbell struggled badly last week in Cutler's absence (14-for-22, one TD, two INT) so obviously the Bears would love to have him back.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (concussion) was a limited participant in Friday's practice.
Insight: Cutler still has to pass an independent concussion test which will take place on Saturday, but things are looking good for fantasy owners of Cutler, Matt Forte and Brandon Marshall who all suffer when Jason Campbell is under center.
Description: The Bears "anticipate" quarterback Jay Cutler (concussion) will start Sunday against Minnesota since he has met concussion protocol to this point. SOURCE: Jason La Canfora, CBSSports.com
Insight: Cutler still has to pass an independent concussion test. We'll keep track of this situation as Sunday draws closer.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (concussion) was cleared to start practice, though he still must pass an independent neurologist before he is allowed to play. He is questionable for Sunday's game against Minnesota.
Insight: One look at backup quarterback Jason Campbell's performance as Cutler's replacement shows how much the Bears need their starter back. So do fantasy owners of Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Matt Forte.
Description: Bears wideout Alshon Jeffery will have arthroscopic surgery to repair his injured right knee on Wednesday. The operation is expected to sideline him for 2-to-4 weeks.
Insight: Jeffery suffered the injury in Monday night's lopsided loss to San Francisco. The injury now puts Jeffery's availability in doubt for the upcoming fantasy playoffs.
Description: Chicago receiver Alshon Jeffery left Monday night's game with San Francisco due to a knee injury and is questionable for Sunday's game against Minnesota.
Insight: Jeffery had just returned from missing five weeks due to a broken hand. he caught two balls for 15 yards. If Jason Campbell continues as the Bears QB against Minnesota then Jeffery has almost no fantasy value.
Description: Bears' backup QB Jason Campbell has been horrible as a replacement for starter Jay Cutler. It was never more evident as when compared to San Francisco 49ers' backup Colin Kaepernick on Monday night.
Insight: One look at Campbell's performance as Cutler's replacement shows how much the Bears need their starter back. So do fantasy owners of Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Matt Forte.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (concussion) is questionable for Sunday's game against Minnesota.
Insight: One look at backup quarterback Jason Campbell's performance as Cutler's replacement shows how much the Bears need their starter back. So do fantasy owners of Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Matt Forte.
Description: Chicago receiver Alshon Jeffery (hand) practiced fully Friday and is on track to play Monday against the 49ers. SOURCE: Vaughn McClure, Chicago Tribune
Insight: Brandon Marshall is the Bears' No. 1 and 2 options in the passing game but Jeffery should help open things up for the superstar. With Jason Campbell starting Monday against the vaunted 49ers defense, we'd stay away from Jeffery in Week 11.
Description: With Bears QB Jay Cutler declared out for Week 11, Jason Campbell will get the start.
Insight: Cutler left Sunday night's game against Houston at the half after being diagnosed with a concussion. Jason Campbell took over and did not play well under wet conditions against a tough Texans' defense, going 11-for-19 for 94 yards. Things won't get easier for Campbell against the 49ers and his fantasy value is low.
Description: Bears backup quarterback Jason Campbell will start Monday night against San Francisco. Jay Cutler (concussion) has been declared out for the game.
Insight: Cutler left Sunday night's game against Houston at the half after being diagnosed with a concussion. Jason Campbell took over and did not play well under wet conditions against a tough Texans' defense. Things won't get easier for Campbell against the 49ers.
Description: Bears fullback Evan Rodriguez is getting some practice at tight end this week and could see some time there against San Francisco.
Insight: Chicago is getting very little production from the tight end position. Starter Kellen Davis has just 11 receptions for 150 yards and two touchdowns. The additional work isn't likely to make Rodriguez fantasy worthy.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (concussion) is "doubtful" to play Monday against the 49ers. SOURCE: John Clayton, ESPN
Insight: Cutler left Sunday night's game at the half after being diagnosed with a concussion. Jason Campbell took over and did not play well under wet conditions against a tough Houston defense. Things won't get easier for Campbell against the 49ers Monday. Hopefully he can still get the ball to Brandon Marshall like he did in Week 10 (six of his eight receptions came from Campbell).
Description: Chicago QB Jay Cutler left Sunday night's game against the Texans with a concussion.
Insight: Cutler was crushed on a helmet-to-helmet hit from Tim Dobbins and initially stayed in the game. Chicago gave Cutler concussion tests at halftime and Jason Campbell took over at QB in the second half. The Bears don't play until next Monday night against the 49ers so Cutler has some extra time to get healthy.
Description: Chicago receiver Alshon Jeffery returned to limited practice Friday, but is not expected to return to game action until his fractured hand is fully healed.
Insight: Jeffery had seen the second-most targets on the team through five games, though Brandon Marshall was still far and away the team's top receiver. Look for Jeffery to return in Week 11.
Description: Bears cornerback Charles Tillman tweeted Thursday that his wife will deliver their child Monday so he'll be able to play Sunday night against the Texans. SOURCE: ESPN.com
Insight: This will be Tillman's fourth child, and he has indicated via Twitter that he would miss Sunday's game to be at the hospital if his wife goes into labor.
Description: Bears receiver Brandon Marshall is sure to see plenty of double coverage Sunday night against the Texans. "They've only thrown it to one guy basically," Houston DC Wade Phillips said. "They do a great job of that. We're going to double cover him every play." SOURCE: Tania Ganguli, Houston Chronicle
Insight: We're sure Marshall is used to getting special attention from opposing defenses but it hasn't hindered him much this season -- he's on pace for 118 receptions, 1,594 yards and 14 touchdowns. Houston has only allowed 18.4 fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, 10th least in the NFL, but Marshall owners shouldn't be too worried.
Description: There's a possibility Chicago cornerback Charles Tillman could miss Sunday's game against Houston. His wife is expecting a child any day now.
Insight: The Bears' defense will be much easier to score against if Tillman is unavailable. The stud defender finished with an astounding four forced fumbles Sunday in a win over Tennessee.
Description: Chicago Bears CB Charles Tillman, like the rest of his teammates on the defensive side of the ball, is having an outstanding season. Tillman has picked off two balls, defensed six passes, scored two touchdowns and recorded 43 total tackles. Most impressively, however, is his seven fumbles forced.
Insight: Tillman forced a team-record four fumbles Sunday against the Titans. He's a strong candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, though he'll have to contend with several players on his own team for the award.
Description: Chicago receiver Brandon Marshall recorded three touchdowns Sunday in a 51-20 victory over Tennessee.
Insight: Marshall has surpassed the 100-yard mark in three of his last five games and already has more touchdowns than he did a year ago when he was on the Dolphins. He's a must-start in all fantasy formats.
Description: Chicago QB Jay Cutler has confirmed that he'll be in action Week 8 against Carolina. Cutler injured his ribs during Monday night's win over Detroit.
Insight: Cutler's 78.3 passer rating is 25th in the league while his 227 yards per game ranks 24th. He's a middle of the pack fantasy arm and should only be started in deeper leagues.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte ran for 96 yards on 22 carries Monday night against the Lions.
Insight: Forte has rushed 22 times in each of the last two games and it's clear he's fully recovered from his ankle injury. Michael Bush had just six carries in relief.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler finished with 150 yards and a touchdown on 16-of-31 passing Monday against the Lions.
Insight: Cutler went to the locker room prior to halftime to have his ribs checked out and he really didn't have to do much in the second half as his defense shut down the Lions. Cutler is just a marginal fantasy option at this point, though his presence makes Brandon Marshall an elite receiver and provides space for Matt Forte to run.
Description: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler headed to the locker room shortly before halftime Monday against the Lions due to bruised ribs but he returned to the game following the half.
Insight: Cutler was driven to the turf on his throwing shoulder by Ndamukong Suh in the second quarter but didn't leave the game initially. He was then seen heading to the locker room before halftime to get his ribs evaluated. Jason Campbell took over on Chicago's final drive of the first half.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte said he's 100 percent, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Forte missed Week 3 with an ankle sprain and returned in a limited capacity against the Cowboys in Week 4 but he rushed for 100-plus yards in Week 5 against the Jaguars.
Insight: The Bears had a bye last week so Forte had more time to rest. Start him as you normally would in Week 7 against the Lions on "Monday Night Football."
Description: Chicago receiver Alshon Jeffery will need 4-to-6 weeks to recover from the broken hand he suffered Sunday against Jacksonville.
Insight: Jeffery has seen the second-most targets on the team through five games, though Brandon Marshall is still far and away the team's top receiver. Look for Kellen Davis and Devin Hester to see more opportunities in Jeffery's absence.
Description: Bears wideout Alshon Jeffery suffered a broken hand Sunday against Jacksonville.
Insight: Jeffery only has 184 receiving yards this season but he does have two touchdowns, including one yesterday versus the Jaguars. Even if Jeffery is able to play after Chicago's bye in Week 6, Brandon Marshall remains the only fantasy worthy receiver on the Bears' roster.
Description: Chicago Bears defensive back Charles Tillman scored a touchdown for the second consecutive week.
Insight: The Bears defense leads all D/ST with 70 fantasy points and has scored four touchdowns in the past two games. The Jets offense has just six touchdowns all season.
Description: Bears receiver Brandon Marshall has 19 catches for 282 yards yards and two touchdowns in his last two games.
Insight: Fantasy owners might have been worried after Marshall only had two catches for 24 yards in Week 2 and five for 71 in Week 3, but he's turned in elite WR1 numbers in each of the last two games.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) fully participated in practice this week and is expected to play on Sunday.
Insight: Forte had 52 yards on 13 carries in his return to the lineup Monday night and he didn't look to have any limitations running the football. Start him as you normally would Sunday against the Jaguars.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) is fully participating in practice, according to CBS 2 Chicago reporter Zach Zaidman.
Insight: Forte had 52 yards on 13 carries in his return to the lineup Monday night and he didn't look to have any limitations running the football. Start him as you normally would Sunday against the Jaguars.
Description: Bears receiver Brandon Marshall had his best game with the team Monday against the Cowboys, hauling in seven balls for 138 yards and a score.
Insight: Marshall has turned in solid performances in three of four games this season. Monday's performance gives him 23 receptions this season and puts him on pace for 92 catches, 1,408 yards and eight touchdowns.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) didn't look like he was bothered by his ankle injury in rushing for 52 yards on 13 carries Monday against Dallas.
Insight: Forte didn't have a great fantasy day but the important thing is he looked healthy running the football. We'll see how his ankle responds during the week.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) is active and will start Monday's game against the Cowboys.
Insight: Forte missed Week 3 with an ankle sprain but he's made good progress. The Bears are likely to take it easy with him this week so we should see plenty of Michael Bush.
Description: According to Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune, Bears running back Michael Bush's shoulder injury might be significant. McClure said he heard Bush is "really toughing it out."
Insight: Bush left last Sunday's game against the Rams with a shoulder injury, forcing Kahlil Bell to finish the game. Matt Forte (ankle) is likely going to play Monday but Bush is still a reliable flex option since he'll get around 10 touches plus goal-line carries.
Description: NFL insider Jay Glazer reported on his Twitter account that "barring a freak setback" Bears running back Matt Forte will be available for Monday's night's matchup with Dallas. Forte missed last week's win over the Rams because of a sprained ankle.
Insight: We still wouldn't trust Forte in fantasy this week as he'll probably be used mostly as a decoy and cede almost all of the goal line carries to the bigger, more physical Michael Bush. Forte will be a better option Week 5 in Jacksonville.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) will check out his ankle in warmups before making the call. "It's a game-time decision for Matt. He's made a lot of progress," said coach Lovie Smith on Monday morning.
Insight: Fantasy owners who handcuffed Forte and backup Michael Bush will have to wait until after warmups to get their final answer. Bush, who is dealing with a sore shoulder, produced double-digit fantasy points last week against the Rams.
Description: Chicago running back Michael Bush said his shoulder is going to be fine, according to Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune.
Insight: Bush left Sunday's game against the Rams with a shoulder injury, forcing Kahlil Bell to finish the game. Bush will be a RB2 option if Matt Forte (ankle) sits again but you can still start him as a flex if Forte is active since Bush is likely to vulture a touchdown.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) was limited in practice Thursday, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times.
Insight: Bears coach Lovie Smith was noncommital Thursday regarding Forte's status for Monday's game against the Cowboys, saying "I can't tell you a lot more than that as far as Matt is concerned except that he's getting better and that's been the case all along with him."
Description: Chicago running back Michael Bush ran for 55 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries and caught two balls for 18 yards against St. Louis this week.
Insight: Bush is a viable fantasy option only so long as Forte (ankle) is sidelined. Coach Lovie Smith said he is hopeful that Forte can return for the Week 4 matchup on Monday Night Football with Dallas.
Description: Bears coach Lovie Smith told a WBBM-AM 780 that he is hopeful running back Matt Forte (ankle) can play next Monday night against Dallas.
Insight: Replacement Michael Bush ran for 55 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries and caught two balls for 18 yards against St. Louis this week. Bush is a viable fantasy option as long as Forte is sidelined.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 3 against the Rams, according to ESPN Chicago.
Insight: Bears coach Lovie Smith said Forte is making a lot of progress but he won't be ready this week after missing the entire week of practice. Michael Bush is a solid RB2 against St. Louis this week.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and most expect him to sit out this weekend.
Insight: Forte's injury was originally thought to be a high-ankle sprain but now it appears less serious. If Forte can't go, Michael Bush should receive most of the carries for the Bears on Sunday.
Description: Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports that Bears running back Matt Forte did not practice on Wednesday. Forte is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams after hurting his ankle last Thursday in Green Bay.
Insight: Forte's injury was originally thought to be a high-ankle sprain but now it appears less serious. He'll still have a few days to recover and possibly take some practice snaps before Chicago has to make a decision on his availability for Week 3. If Forte can't go, Michael Bush should receive most of the carries for the Bears on Sunday.
Description: According to coach Lovie Smith, Bears running back Matt Forte does not have the dreaded "high-ankle sprain" but didn't elaborate. Still, the Bears added running back Kahlil Bell to the roster.
Insight: For those who handcuffed Michael Bush to Forte, your reward will be a solid fantasy option for the next few weeks. Bush scored twice in Week 1 and rushed 14 times for 54 yards on Thursday night against the Packers. He should be an excellent option in Week 3 against the Rams weak run defense.
Description: Chicago running back Michael Bush will be the Bears starting for the next few weeks with Matt Forte suffering a high-ankle sprain in the game against Green Bay.
Insight: For those who handcuffed Bush to Forte, your reward will be a solid fantasy option for the next few weeks. Bush scored twice in Week 1 and rushed 14 times for 54 yards on Thursday night against the Packers. He should be an excellent option in Week 3 against the Rams weak run defense.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte has the dreaded "high-ankle sprain." This is typically a multi-week injury.
Insight: For those who handcuffed Michael Bush to Forte, your reward will be a solid fantasy option for the next few weeks. Bush scored twice in Week 1 and rushed 14 times for 54 yards on Thursday night against the Packers. He should be an excellent option in Week 3 against the Rams weak run defense.
Description: Bears receiver Brandon Marshall had just two catches for 24 yards Thursday against Green Bay.
Insight: Marshall caught nine balls for 119 yards and a touchdown in Week 1 but QB Jay Cutler had no time to throw all night Thursday and Green Bay's secondary did a good job blanketing Marshall. The receiver did drop a catchable ball in the end zone in the third quarter.
Description: Bears QB Jay Cutler had an abysmal night Thursday against Green Bay, throwing for 126 yards and four picks.
Insight: Only some of the blame can be placed on Cutler, since his offensive line was atrocious, allowing seven sacks. Green Bay hurried Cutler on nearly every drop back and he was only able to hit Brandon Marshall two times for 24 yards.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte has been ruled out for the game with an ankle injury.
Insight: A Packers defender landed on Forte's ankle during a tackle. The running back had his ankle taped up and was ready to return to the game but he reportedly had pain while cutting and went to the locker room.
Description: Chicago Bears receiver Devin Hester was targeted just two times all Sunday afternoon as quarterback Jay Cutler looked primarily to his old friend Brandon Marshall (15 tagets).
Insight: Hester had one punt return (23 yards) and two kickoff returns for a total of five touches. That's simply not enough to stay fantasy-worthy. We suspect he'll get more action than this, but we worry whether he can be a fantasy starter in any league which doesn't include return yards.
Description: Bears receiver Brandon Marshall is still the apple of Jay Cutler's eye. Marshall had nine receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown in his Chicago debut.
Insight: Marshall had two 100-catch seasons with Cutler at the helm in Denver and a third seems likely this season.
Description: Michael Bush scored two touchdowns in his Bears debut, but that didn't diminish Matt Forte's production. Forte rushed for 80 yards on 16 carries and caught three balls for 40 yards while scoring a touchdown of his own.
Insight: Bush is the primary goal-line back but Forte was able to get in the end zone from six yards out Sunday against the Colts. Forte's game has never been touchdowns so he should maintain RB1 value, especially in PPR leagues.
Description: ESPN's Bob Holtzman said he wouldn't be surprised if halfback Michael Bush tallies as many fantasy points as starter Matt Forte this season.
Insight: Holtzman went as far as to say both will have a chance to exceed 1,000 yards rushing in 2012. Bush will almost certainly be the back of choice near the goal line, which reduces Forte to a low-end RB2 or flex role in fantasy.
Description: Injured Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher told WFLD-Chicago, "I'm playing Sunday. Done deal."
Insight: Urlacher has been dealing with knee trouble all preseason but that won't stop him from competing in Chicago's Week 1 matchup versus the Colts. Expect Urlacher to play through the pain and anchor a Bears defense that still ranks amongst the best in the league.
Description: Quarterback Josh McCown has been released by the Chicago Bears.
Insight: McCown threw for two touchdowns and four interceptions in three games for the Bears in 2011. With McCown no longer on the team, former Redskins and Raiders QB Jason Campbell will be the backup to starter Jay Cutler this season.
Description: Chicago wide receiver Johnny Knox, still recovering from offseason spinal fusion surgery, has been placed on the physically unable to perform list, meaning that he won't be eligible to play the first six games of the regular season.
Insight: Knox, who led the Bears with 727 receiving yards in 2011, could be done for the year.
Description: Chicago running back Matt Forte rushed 10 times for 39 yards while Michael Bush ran the ball just once in the Bears 20-17 preseason win over the Giants.
Insight: Forte averaged 123.9 ypg from scrimmage last season before a knee injury in Week 12. He'll be sharing some of his workload with the newly acquired Bush, but from what we've seen in preseason it may only hurt Forte's opportunities at the goal line.
Description: When free agent running back Michael Bush first met with Bears offensive coordinator Mike Tice, Bush says Tice told him he "wanted two 1,000-yard running backs," according to a story in the Chicago Sun-Times.
Insight: If true, that sort of focus on the running game would certainly would put a limit on Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall and the Bears passing game and their fantasy value would suffer.
Description: According to NFL.com reporter Ian Rapoport, the Bears are pessimistic that linebacker Brian Urlacher (knee) will be ready to play Week 1.
Insight: Per the Chicago Tribune, Urlacher went to Germany to have the same knee procedure Kobe Bryant and Alex Rodriguez underwent last year. The Bears are preparing as if he won't be on the field Week 1 against the Colts.
Description: Chicago running back Matt Forte will be in the lineup for the Bears second preseason games against Washington. He missed the first exhibition because of his contract situation.
Insight: Don't expect a lot from this game as both Forte and Jay Cutler will be seeing their first action of the season. Forte averaged 123.9 ypg from scrimmage last season before a knee injury in Week 12. He'll be sharing some of his workload with newly acquired Michael Bush this season so his fantasy value for 2012-13 is to be determined.
Description: Bears linebacker Brian Urlacherunderwent arthroscopic on his left knee Tuesday, but still thinks he'll be ready when the whistle blows in Week 1 according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.
Insight: The Bears are one of the top fantasy defenses when Urlacher and Julius Peppers are wrecking havoc with opposing offenses. The year that Urlacher missed due to injury, 2009, the Bears yielded 23.4 ppg, their highest total in seven seasons.
Description: According to NFL.com analyst Chad Reuter, Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall has "simply overwhelmed any cornerback trying to challenge him at the line of scrimmage" in training camp.
Insight: Marshall has been reunited with quarterback Jay Cutler in Chicago. The two combined for 206 completions for 2590 yards for the Broncos from 2007-09. Marshall could challenge 100 catches and 1,200 yards receiving with the Bears this season and should be drafted as a WR1.
Description: According to the Chicago Tribune, the Bears are expected to use running back Michael Bush at the goal line.
Insight: Bush doesn't have breakaway speed but he can move the pile with his 245-pound frame. He'll have fantasy value if he can hold onto the goal-line job, though Matt Forte figures to see the majority of the touches elsewhere.
Description: No more worrying about whether Chicago running back Matt Forte will report to camp on time as he and the Bears have apparently agreed to a four-year deal.
Insight: Forte averaged 123.9 ypg from scrimmage last season before a knee injury in Week 12. Now the only worry for fantasy owners comes from newly acquired Michael Bush. Bush proved in Oakland that when called upon he can carry a running game and could steal more rushing attempts than Marion Barber and Kahlil Bell did in 2011.
Description: Bears running back Matt Forte seems to be much more optimistic that he and management can come to terms soon.
Insight: Early contract negotiations along with the signing of talented Michael Bush appeared to be setting up a long, drawn out struggle, but this is Forte's first positive words. Forte skipped the OTAs, but maybe they can bring about a deal before training camp. Forte did everything for the Bears offense averaging 83 ypg on the ground and 40 ypg receiving.
Description: Chicago Bears receiver Devin Hester doesn't think he'll be doing a lot of punt and kickoffs this season.
Insight: "I think every now and then, I'm going to do kickoffs," said Hester "It will depend on how the game is going." Sounds like more passes headed his way than kicks, though obviously he'll be the No. 2 receiver behind Brandon Marshall. Adjust your projections accordingly.
Description: Chicago Bears newly acquired running back Michael Bush has been working with the first team what with Matt Forte skipping the team's OTA.
Insight: Bush rushed for 977 yards and seven touchdowns last season in Oakland while starting only six of 16 games. We know he has talent, but if Forte doesn't agree to terms then we could see a lot more of Bush than expected.
