Cutler’s Status Still in Doubt for Niners Game

Nov 11, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) scrambles during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-US PRESSWIRE

It’s not looking good for Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler to play Monday night at San Francicso after another day passed without practicing.  On a normal week, it would be especially concerning if the quarterback had bot practiced by Thursday, but since the Bears don’t play until Monday, this was the first practice of the week in preparation for their Week 11 matchup.

It’s interesting to note that Niners QB Alex Smith, who also suffered a concussion on Sunday, has practiced the last two days, although he hasn’t been cleared for contact.   If Smith is unable to go, Colin Kaepernick would get the nod under center.  He adds a different dimension to the SF attack, as a bit more of a mobile quarterback than Smith.

Under the NFL’s rules for concussions, the injured player must be evaluated and cleared to return to action by an independent physician not affiliated with the team or the league.   While Bears coach Lovie Smith did his evasive best to dodge Cutler questions in his Thursday presser, I’m wondering if anyone asked if Cutler had been evaluated for return.  Has Cutler been evaluated and not been cleared or has he not even gotten to the evaluation process as he still recovers?

If Cutler is unable to go, the Bears will use their $3.5 million insurance policy in Jason Campbell.  Meanwhile, rookie defensive end Shea McClellin who also suffered a concussion on Sunday, sat out of practice.  If he’s unable to go, expect a few more reps for surging Corey Wooton, who’s had his best year as a pro.