With Trubisky doubtful for Detroit game, Daniel could get his first start
The Bears have listed quarterback Mitch Trubisky as doubtful for Thursday's game against the Lions in Detroit, making it more likely nine-year veteran backup Chase Daniel will make his third career start and first since 2014.
The Bears held a limited, walk-through practice early Wednesday, in which Trubisky did not participate because of an injury to his right shoulder he suffered near the end of Sunday night's 25-20 victory over the Vikings.
The 32-year-old Daniel has thrown only 78 career passes, none this season, and none last year when he was with the Saints. He threw one pass in 2016 with the Eagles. Daniel, however, spent 2012 to 2015 with the Chiefs, where Bears head coach Matt Nagy was the QB coach, and the Bears' system is similar to what was run in Kansas City and in Philadelphia in 2016.
Trubisky has not practiced this week and could miss his first NFL start since he was promoted to starter in the fifth game of his rookie season last year.
"I'm saying cautiously optimistic, but I can't make any promises," Nagy said when asked about Trubisky Tuesday, the last time he spoke with media. "I hope he does (play). He wants to play. But we've got to make sure that we're doing the right thing. If it's something where Chase ends up playing, then that's the way it goes, and we keep moving forward."
At that time he expressed faith in the 6-foot, 225-pound Daniel despite his lack of playing time.
"This is why you have a guy like Chase," Nagy said. "You feel very comfortable with him. Chase understands; he's the oldest guy on our team, so he's got experience.
"Chase and I have a relationship, a coach-player relationship going back (to) three years in Kansas City."
Bears outside linebacker Aaron Lynch and tight end Adam Shaheen are both listed as out and remain in the concussion protocol after being injured Sunday. The Bears are expected to promote inexperienced No. 3 quarterback Tyler Bray from the practice squad for Thursday's game.