Ha Ha Clinton-Dix sounded adamant when asked what it means to go back to Lambeau Field to play the Packers — the team that drafted him, nurtured him and then traded him.
“Not a damn thing,” Clinton-Dix said.
Yeah, right.
“No, I’m just kidding, man,” the Bears safety quickly added. “It means a lot. Just to go back and be able to play against the guys that I’ve been with for the past five years, and able to compete against your friends. It makes the games more fun and more competitive.”
Clinton-Dix was traded to the Redskins for a fourth-round draft pick in Week 9 last season. He signed a one-year, $3.25 million contract with the Bears in free agency. He seemed to acknowledge his part in the abrupt end to his career with the Packers. But he’s also pleased that a successful season with the Bears has re-established him as an impact safety in the NFL.
So it’s not like he’ll be out there trying to make the Packers regret their decision to trade him.
“Just as a competitor, no,” Clinton-Dix said. “I know who I am as an individual. There were things that I did in the past five years that put me in a situation. I had a chance to correct it. I’ve been doing it throughout the year. I’m just excited about this opportunity.”
Clinton-Dix arrived with a reputation for tackling issues, but has been a reliable all-around safety in 2019. He has 66 tackles, two interceptions and five pass break-ups this season. It’s questionable whether the Bears can re-sign him at a long-term market-value deal. But he’ll wait before addressing the future.
“The only thing I can reflect on is these next three games,” Clinton-Dix said. “I’m excited about this game – I can’t express it anymore. I’ve got to finish this game strong. The next three games are important to me, and this one’s next on the list.”
Injury report
Wide receiver/kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson was limited in practice Thursday because of a head injury that he apparently suffered in practice.
The rest of the Bears’ injury report was status quo, with six players who did not practice: Right tackle Bobby Massie (ankle), defensive end Roy Robertson-Harris (foot), wide receiver Javon. Wims (knee), wide receiver Taylor Gabriel (concussion), linebacker Danny Trevathan (elbow), and tight end Ben Braunecker (concussion).
Cornerback Prince Amukamara (hamstring) who did not play against the Cowboys last week, had full participation in practice for the second consecutive day Thursday.
Hicks cautious but on target
Defensive end Akiem Hicks, expected to come off injured reserve after recovering from a dislocated left shoulder, said after practice Thursday, “I’m not going to make any declarations” about playing Sunday against the Packers. But the Bears anticipate Hicks at least will give it a go.
“I think everybody’s hope is that he does get out there,” defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano said. “He’s progressing nicely.”
