Some 'pretty nasty' stuff in Brown's arm

A wounded warrior returned to Halas Hall on Friday. Guard Ruben Brown visited the Bears headquarters a week after undergoing the shoulder surgery in Michigan that ended his 2007 season.

"It was getting worse," the 35-year-old, nine-time Pro Bowl pick said of his lingering injury. "I felt like my strength and my ability to get ready for the game was going down. Each week that I played made it worse and worse.

"The best option for the team (was) for me (to) let somebody who's a lot healthier than I am to get out there and give us a shot as opposed to me dragging myself around with one arm trying to do it. We're in a position where we have to make a run. For the team's sake, that's something I had to do."

Brown had played with the injury since late last season, and he hoped an off-season of rest and a limited practice schedule this year could help him through the regular season before the inevitable surgery. He made it half way before the labrum tear took too much of a toll on his performance.

"(There was) some ligament damage, particles in the joint, it was pretty nasty," Brown said. "It was pretty grounded up just for the fact I was trying to keep going when I probably should have had something done earlier."

Brown said he'd like to be back for a 14th season and a fifth with the Bears, but at his age, the odds are against him.

"I don't think I'm going to be demanding any large contract or anything," he said. "I would love to be here. Is that going to happen? That's up to the people upstairs that sign the deals."

Injury update: Defensive tackle Tommie Harris did not practice all week and was listed as "questionable," but coach Lovie Smith expects him to play Sunday.

Cornerback Nate Vasher (groin, questionable) is still limited at practice and isn't expected to play. Smith said no decision has been made regarding the No. 2 quarterback behind starter Rex Grossman. Brian Griese, who started the previous six games, is still limited by a sprained left shoulder but went through a full practice Friday and is probable, but he could be dropped to No. 3 Sunday behind Kyle Orton. Safety Brandon McGowan (elbow, probable) went through the full practice.

Making strides: Despite last week's dominant performance, the defense isn't playing at the expected level yet, according to defensive end Alex Brown.

"We need to play good football first, and then when we get to 'Bear football,' you'll really see the Chicago Bears dominate," Brown said.

Upon further review: Official review of last week's game has changed what was originally credited as a sack by linebacker Lance Briggs to a tackle for loss. Also, a 4-yard run originally credited to Cedric Benson was given to quarterback Rex Grossman, leaving Benson with 72 yards on 28 carries vs. the Raiders and Grossman with 4 yards on 2 carries.