Oct. 16--As Bears receiver Alshon Jeffery nears his return from an injured hamstring, the club is optimistic about the impact he could have on a passing attack that has been limited at times during his four-game absence with reserve receivers sometimes providing a lift.
"We're going to be able to open things up a little bit," coordinator Adam Gase said Thursday when asked about Jeffery's eventual return. "We haven't really been able to attack down the field."
Jeffery was limited in practice Thursday, exactly four weeks since he suffered the hamstring injury that has sidelined him since the regular season opener.
"I feel a lot better than last week," Jeffery said afterward.
The Bears are evaluating Jeffery ahead of Sunday's road game against the Lions, taking no progress for granted. After all, neither of his leg muscle injuries this season occurred in games.
He first strained his left calf in the team's walk-through the day before the first exhibition game. Then his hamstring became problematic after he fully participated in practice on Sept. 17.
Quarterback Jay Cutler believes he will reconnect quickly with Jeffery in game situations.
"I've thrown stuff to him over the last couple of weeks as he has eased into it," Cutler said. "The biggest thing with him is just staying in shape and being able to stay in game shape because the rest of us are kind of there."
Gase is eager to re-incorporate into the offense Jeffery's exceptional ability to catch contested throws. And he's also mindful of Jeffery's individual progress.
"I'm more excited for him to get to where he needs to get to be able to play," he said, "and being able to sustain it for the rest of the year."
rcampbell@tribpub.com
