The Bears have spent the last three weeks without left guard Matt Slauson or center Roberto Garza in the lineup because of ankle injuries, although both players have made progress toward getting back on the field this week.
Slauson is probable and Garza is questionable after getting at least limited work in all of the week’s practices, but the team won’t be 100 percent on the line if the do plsy. Left tackle Jermon Bushrod has been ruled out for the game with knee and ankle issues.
If Slauson is able to return, Michael Ola will kick out to left tackle after starting the last three games in Slauson’s place. If Slauson can’t play, the Bears will have to turn to Charles Leno or Eben Britton at tackle.
Even with the Panthers shorthanded on the defensive line, that’s not a particularly appealing option for Chicago so they’ll be hoping Slauson’s ankle avoids problems between now and Sunday’s kickoff.