Bears' defense short key piece if Harris can't go
Sore knee has kept him sidelined since Aug. 21
By Vaughn McClure | Tribune reporter
11:15 PM CDT, September 2, 2008
While the Bears made a trade Tuesday to shore up depth on their injury-depleted offensive line, they hope there isn't a bigger health concern they will have to address on the other side of the ball.
Defensive tackle Tommie Harris hasn't practiced since after the third exhibition game Aug. 21, according to a team source. Harris was held out of the exhibition finale against Cleveland, along with safety Mike Brown, for what coach Lovie Smith cited as precautionary reasons.
The Bears haven't mentioned Harris' absence from practice. Their first injury report of the season is due Wednesday, according to league rules.
A source said the Bears' medical staff has expressed concern Harris' knee injury might be more serious than the team first thought, but team officials rejected that idea Tuesday night. It was pointed out that similar concerns were raised last season about Harris' health after he sprained his left knee against Dallas, but he was in action for the next game Sept. 30 at Detroit.
If Harris is limited or doesn't play against the Colts, he likely would be replaced in the lineup by a group including Anthony Adams, Dusty Dvoracek and promising rookie Marcus Harrison.
Matt Toeaina, who might have been kept on the roster because of the team's knowledge of Harris' condition, also could work into the rotation.
Israel Idonije, dominant at times in exhibitions, gives the Bears flexibility and would move inside under any scenario that includes Harris going to the sideline. Idonije started in place of Harris against the Browns.
Injured or not, Harris has been known as a fast healer and has played through pain before, so it wouldn't be a surprised if he suited up against the Colts regardless.
LINK
http://chicagosports.chicagotribune....1,837160.story
Bears' DT Harris' status for Sunday in question
Bears' DT Harris' status for Sunday in question
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