BOURBONNAIS, Ill. -- That he is even able to be on a football field and running could be considered as something of a minor miracle. Johnny Knoxs back injury in last seasons Dec. 18 game against the Seattle Seahawks ranks as one of the more gruesome suffered by a Chicago athlete in some years.
Whether Knox is recovered enough to be an active participant in Bears training camp, however, is problematic, and the third-year wide receiver is expected to be placed on the physically unable to perform list after Wednesdays team conditioning testing.
Were going to let that take its course and see where its at, said GM Phil Emery. And if he does, itll be on the active PUP where we can bring him up at any time. Well play that day by day.
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Johnnys certainly worked hard and deserves every consideration that we can give him to get healthy and get back on the field.
The Bears begin camp with 11 wide receivers on their roster and Knox would be under pressure to make the final 53 in any case. Additions Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Eric Weems are considered locks, as are Earl Bennett and Devin Hester.
Special teams gives Devin Thomas an edge over Dane Sanzenbacher, and Weems fills the need for another returner to supplement Hester.
Knox was present at organized team activities and minicamps but has not taken part in drills since his injury.
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Hes able to do all the weight lifting, Emery said. Hes doing quite a bit of rehab. Hes doing some light running, able to get off the assistant treadmill, so he is doing those activities. He is making steady progress toward getting back on the field.