Bears' Marshall may miss rest of season

The Bears are likely to be without wide receiver Brandon Marshall for the remainder of the season.

Marshall suffered two fractured ribs and a lung injury while making a 15-yard reception that set up the Bears' first touchdown in Thursday night's 41-28 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. After leaping to make the catch, Marshall was hit by Cowboys strong safety Barry Church and was motionless on the ground for several moments before walking off the field.

The nine-year veteran has been ruled out for the team's next game against the New Orleans Saints on Monday, Dec. 15, and seems doubtful at best he'll return any time this season.

The Bears did not reveal the extent of the lung injury, but Marshall remained hospitalized Friday morning for treatment.

Bears coach Marc Trestman visited Marshall late Thursday night and said, “He was in good spirits and had a big smile on his face.”

Marshall had 3 catches for 61 yards against the Cowboys, including a spectacular, one-handed grab for a 42-yard gain three plays before he was injured.

Marshall has battled numerous injuries throughout the season, including a sprained ankle that slowed him in multiple games, but he has not missed a start.

If his season is over, Marshall will finish with 61 receptions, 721 yards (11.8-yard average) and 8 touchdowns.

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