Chicago Bears Injury Report: Jermon Bushrod among four ruled out for Sunday

The Chicago Bears have four players ruled out for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. Starting left tackle Jermon Bushrod (knee/ankle), who hurt himself at practice this week, is in a walking boot and vows to be back, "as soon as possible." There was some good news in regards to his injury.

#Bears LT Jermon Bushrod said surgery has been ruled out and that it’s just a rehab process. Said it’s combo right knee and ankle. In boot.

— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) October 3, 2014

This will be the first game he's missed since 2009.

Also ruled out for the Bears are outside linebacker Shea McClellin (hand), Jeremaih Ratliff (concussion) and Ahmad Dixon (hamstring). Ratliff still hasn't passed the concussion protocol since he was forced out of their week 2 game against the 49ers. McClellin hasn't played since week two either.

Center Roberto Garza (ankle) and corner back Sherrick McManis (quad) are both doubtful (25% chance to play).

Matt Slauson (ankle) is hopeful to start at left guard and is currently listed as questionable (50% chance to play).

The other Bears on the injury report are all listed as probable, meaning a 75% chance they'll play. Jared Allen (illness) should be ready to start at defensive end. Lance Briggs (knee), Chris Conte (shoulder), D.J. Williams (neck) and Brandon Marshall (ankle) are all expected to play as well. Marshall says he's feeling better than he has in a while and he will be "full speed" for Sunday.

With Slauson expected back, the Bears will probably shift Michael Ola out to left tackle in place of Bushrod.

For the Carolina Panthers, defensive end Charles Johnson (hip) had a good day of practice today and will be listed as probable. Johnson has averaged 11 sacks a season from 2010 - 2013 so his presence will be big for them.

Running back Jonathan Stewart is doubtful with a knee injury. He did not practice today. Tight end Ed Dickson (hip) is questionable and will be a game time decision.

The following Panthers are all listed as Probable, DT Colin Cole (not injury related), LB Thomas Davis (hip), DT Dwan Edwards (not injury related), CB Melvin White (thigh) and RB Fozzy Whittaker (thigh).

Carolina has already ruled both TE/FB Richie Brockel and RB DeAngelo Williams out for this Sunday.

Even though he's not on the injury report the Panthers have been very cautious with quarterback Cam Newton and his surgically repaired ankle. If they feel he's 100%, they may run some read/option stuff on Sunday.

What are your thoughts on the injury report this week?