Bears vs Panthers injury report: Markus Wheaton out for Chicago, Luke Kuechly out for Carolina

Do you guys remember last week when the Chicago Bears gave up two special teams touchdowns? Do you know who wasn’t on the field for either of those?

Special teams’ captain, Sherrick McManis.

I’m not saying his injury is the reason the Ravens converted both the kick and the punt for TDs, but I’m not saying it’s not the reason.

The Bears have ruled McManis doubtful for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers with his hamstring injury. Also doubtful for the Bears is inside linebacker John Timu (ankle/knee). Neither of these two players practiced at all this week, nor did wide out Markus Wheaton (groin), but Wheaton is ruled out.

These players are listed as questionable for the Bears; Center Hroniss Grasu (hand), inside linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski (chest) and running back Benny Cunningham (hamstring). Kwiatkowski and Cunningham were full participants at Friday’s practice, while Grasu was still limited. Of the three, I think it’s a safe bet that Grasu is inactive, as that has been the plan every game his hand has been bothering him.

For the Carolina Panthers, All Pro middle linebacker Luke Kuechly, who is in concussion protocol, has been ruled out. The Panthers will also be without safety Demetrious Cox, running back Fozzy Whittaker and tackle John Theus.

Wide out Kelvin Benjamin is one of six Panthers listed as questionable. The others are kicker Graham Gano, safety Kurt Coleman, defensive end Charles Johnson, center Ryan Kalil and center/guard Greg Van Roten.

Carolina is also without pro bowl tight end Greg Olsen who is on injured reserve.