Week 1 Status of Kyle Long and Pernell McPhee Just Became Clearer

Everybody knew going into the 2017 season that the Chicago Bears would be defined by the health of their roster. It was decimated a year ago with over 20 players ending up on injured reserve. Estimates say only one other team has suffered worse losses in over a decade. It's hard to win football games that way. So of course keeping guys healthy was a major offseason focus. So far only Cameron Meredith is their biggest loss. Right now though all eyes are on Kyle Long and Pernell McPhee. Both are considered vital to team efforts this year. Long of course being the Pro Bowl guard he is. McPhee showcasing his value as a pass rusher when on the field. To date the Bears have offered little in the way of clarity on whether or not those two will be available for the opener against Atlanta on September 2nd. Back at practice for the first time since their victory over the Titans in week three of the preseason, the fog is starting to lift.

Kyle Long and Pernell McPhee status for opener crystallizing

First the bad news. Or rather the no news at all. It was hinted in on uncertain terms that this would have to be the week McPhee was taken off the PUP list. It would be a clear cut sign he was progressing in his rehab from knee surgery. Not seeing that happen would likely mean he'd stay on the list going into the season.

This would mean he'd have to miss the first six games of the season. It would mark the second-straight time that's happened to him. No doubt it puts added pressure on the Bears outside linebackers to shoulder the load without him. Of course it's not set in stone yet but there's been no announcement to this point. So it doesn't look good. Thankfully it's not all bad. Head coach John Fox was able to declare that Long remains on target in his own recovery. If there are no setbacks in the coming two weeks, he hinted strongly the guard should be ready for the Falcons.

This means the Bears offensive line should be at close to full strength. Given how well its played even without Long this preseason, that is a great comfort. Jordan Howard and the running game should function well. Mike Glennon, love him or hate him, will have stout protection up the middle. It may not be the ideal scenario Bears fans were hoping for, but it's progress. At this stage that's something.