(670 The Score) Bears quarterback Justin Fields returned to practice Friday in a key step toward returning from a dislocated right thumb.
Fields was officially listed as doubtful to play when the Bears visit the Saints on Sunday. However, he could be in line to return next Thursday, when the Bears host the Panthers at Soldier Field on a short week.
The Bears will start rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent this Sunday for the third straight week. Bagent has completed 70% of his passes for 477 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions in three games while filling in for Fields.
Fields suffered his thumb injury in the Bears' loss to the Vikings on Oct. 15. Friday marked the first time he had practiced since suffering the injury. Fields has completed 61.7% of his passes for 1,201 yards, 11 touchdowns and six interceptions in six starts this season.
In other injury news, the Bears ruled out linebacker Tremaine Edmunds (knee), safety Jaquan Brisker (concussion), right guard Nate Davis (ankle) and cornerback Terell Smith (mono) on Sunday. Offesive tackle Braxton Jones (neck) is listed as questionable. He must first be activated from injured reserve if he's to play.
The Bears (2-6) and Saints (4-4) will kick off at noon on Sunday from the Caesars Superdome.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.