The Bears practiced Thursday without perhaps their three best players — outside linebacker Khalil Mack (shoulder), defensive lineman Akiem Hicks (ankle) and receiver Allen Robinson (hamstring) — but coach Matt Nagy tried to downplay the attrition.
Nagy called the absence of Mack and Hicks “more precautionary” and later said the same about Robinson, who did practice Wednesday.
All three have played this year after missing practices.
The Bears’ injury report was robust Thursday. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson hurt his right shoulder against the Texans and hasn’t practiced since.
“I don’t know if it’s week-to-week as much as it is day-to-day with him,” Nagy said. “All these guys can do is keep getting that rehab, and each day is important. So we are really hammering home that rehab right now.”
Defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano sounded pleased with another replacement: rookie Kindle Vildor, who started for Johnson on Sunday. He had to cover rookie Justin Jefferson, who made the Pro Bowl this week, and two-time Pro Bowl player Adam Thielen.
“I thought he did a good job — and it was very difficult,” Pagano said. “You’re talking about going against two really good wideouts in the league.”
Slot corner Buster Skrine hasn’t returned from concussion protocol since getting injured three weeks ago against the Lions. Duke Shelley, who took Skrine’s place, did not practice Thursday because of a knee/foot problem.
Tight end Demetrius Harris and safety Deon Bush, who have foot injuries, are still out.
