Fox gives Chicago Bears a late start for Christmas practice

Working around and through Christmas and the holidays is a necessary part of life in the NFL, but Chicago Bears coach John Fox makes some concessions.

"(Christmas Day) we're starting two hours later just to give them an opportunity to be with their families," Fox said. "Guys with young kids, it's a pretty exciting time for their families.

"But we're still putting in the same time, just starting later. To me it makes you appreciate what you have, the blessings that you have. (But) they understand they have to continue (the work)."

The Bears had to play on Thanksgiving Night in Green Bay this year, but they at least came away with a victory.

"It is what it is," Fox said. "You have to work through it. Guys are professionals, and they understand it."

No big deal:

Undrafted rookie linebacker John Timu downplayed his game-best 9 tackles against the Minnesota Vikings in his first NFL start.

"None of that really matters to me if we don't win," said the 6-foot, 247-pound Timu. "Obviously I didn't do enough to pull out a victory."

After playing on special teams in the first four games this season, Timu was moved to the practice squad before being promoted the week before the Vikings game.

Friendly foes:

Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston and Bears nose tackle Eddie Goldman were teammates on Florida State's national championship team.

"Eddie is a force," Winston said. "I'm just happy I wasn't a running back when we had to go run against him (in practice), because he was unstoppable. He's doing great in Chicago. I keep up with him. Tell him good job. We actually have the same birthday, so me and Eddie, we have a pretty tight bond."

Injury update:

Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (hamstring) and linebacker Shea McClellin (concussion) did not practice for the second straight day.

Wide receiver Eddie Royal (knee), linebacker Pernell McPhee (knee), cornerbacks Bryce Callahan (quad) and Tracy Porter (ankle) and safety Adrian Amos (shoulder) were limited.