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Bears News

Bears Report: Keenan Allen’s ‘cleat issue,’ Patrick Scales to IR, O-line depth and more

3 months agoScott Bair

LAKE FOREST, Ill. – Bears receiver Keenan Allen did not participate in Wednesday’s practice and hasn’t suited up in a session open to the media since last week.

General manager Ryan Poles was asked about his absence and wasn’t concerned about it at all.

“Last week, he had a cleat issue, so there some discomfort in his foot,” Poles said. “But he should be fine.”

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That’s a positive development, considering the Bears need to be at full strength to help quarterback Caleb Williams get through his regular-season debut.

Allen has been excellent this camp, showing an uncanny knack of getting open even against quality Bears defensive backs. He’s also a perfect complement to the receiver room, bringing a different skill set than D.J. Moore or Rome Odunze.

Poles on offensive-line depth

The Bears GM kept 10 offensive linemen on the 53-man roster, and said he feels confident that all of them can step in and do a good job. They might need some of that depth, with a recentinjuries up front. That includes Bill Murray, who left practice early while being escorted by trainers.

All told, though, Poles is happy with the group he has got.

“This is probably the best depth I’ve ever had,” Poles said. “I actually let one of the guys go on cut downs and I was like, ‘man, you did an excellent job. I wish we could keep you here.’ He said, ‘this is the deepest room I’ve ever been a part of.’

“So we have more versatility, more depth. Shoot, we have 10 guys, so I feel comfortable. Obviously, you want your starting five to be healthy and ready to go, but I feel more confident in the depth of our offensive line than I ever have before.”

Bears put long snapper on IR

Patrick Scales was placed on injured reserve on Wednesday. He has been dealing with a back issue and hasn’t practiced in some time. If he heals properly, he can be designated for return later in the season.

Chicago doesn’t currently have a long snapper, so they’ll search for one and have to clear a roster spot once they find their guy.

Fullback Khari Blasingame was back at Halas Hall on Wednesday, a day after the team terminated his contract in a procedural move. They wanted Scales on the 53-man roster through final cuts and Blasingame helped them do that.

Post-practice notes

Outside of Allen, CB Jaylon Johnson, RB Roschon Johnson were other prominent players not working at Wednesday’s practice in pads. S Kevin Byard returned to practice after nearly a week away, but didn’t participate in team drills. Neither did DE Montez Sweat, but those moves seem to be focused on preserving health.

Follow Bears Insider Scott Bair @ScottBairNFL.

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