Lake Forest, IL (Sports Network) - Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has yet to be cleared to participate in Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings, though head coach Lovie Smith was optimistic about his offensive leader's chances on Friday.
Cutler, who sat out Monday's loss at San Francisco with a concussion he sustained against the Houston Texans the previous week, is expected to meet with an independent neurologist on Saturday to determine whether he'll get the go-ahead for Sunday's key NFC North tilt.
The veteran signal-caller did resume practicing on a limited basis on Thursday and is listed as questionable on the final injury report.
"As you listen to me talk about him, he's looking better," Smith told reporters on Friday. "The last phase of his evaulation will be tomorrow."
Chicago's offense struggled mightily with backup Jason Campbell at the controls in the team's 32-7 setback to the 49ers, mustering a season-low 143 yards and a paltry 58 net passing yards. Campbell managed just 107 yards with one touchdown on 14-of-22 efficiency, while throwing two interceptions and taking six sacks.
Campbell also hurt his ribs in the lopsided loss, but is probable for Sunday's game. Top wide receiver Brandon Marshall (shoulder) is also expected to play after putting in a full practice on Friday.
Chicago will definitely be without rookie wideout Alshon Jeffery, who underwent a knee scope on Wednesday and will likely be sidelined 2-to-4 weeks.
Other than Cutler, tight end Kellen Davis was the only Bears player termed questionable. Davis is dealing with an ankle injury.
