Report: No major damage to Bears receiver Meredith beyond ACL tear

The knee damage that Bears wide receiver Cameron Meredith suffered in the team's third preseason game is not career-ending, according to multiple reports.

Ian Rappaport of the NFL Network says Meredith could recover and rejoin the team next spring: "Relatively good news for #Bears WR Cameron Meredith, following MRIs and tests: It's only the ACL and MCL damaged. Potentially back by OTAs."

Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports a full recovery is possible in eight months.

Bob LeGere of the Daily Herald writes that replacing Meredith's 2016 totals of 66 catches, 888 yards and 4 touchdowns is not a one-man job, but it does create what could be a career-changing opportunity for someone.

"I always say, 'Next man up,' and it's no disrespect to the player that got hurt," coach John Fox said. "(But) you don't want to give them excuses to whine about it, and we're going to have to figure out somebody to replace him.

"You feel bad for Cam. He's well-liked, a good teammate, (and) obviously we'll miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with him in his recovery, but somebody's got to take that spot."

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