LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — As the healing process continues for Justin Fields and his injured right thumb, Bears rookie Tyson Bagent is set to make his second straight start at quarterback.
Fields didn't practice Wednesday and isn't expected to play Sunday night when Bears (2-5) take on the Chargers (2-4) at SoFi Stadium. The Bears will once again turn to Bagent, an undrafted rookie out of Division-II Shepherd University.
"He’s been the same guy," head coach Matt Eberflus said of Bagent. "He’s the same guy as he was last week. He’s prepared, he’s focused, he’s got that determined look in his eye."
Fields suffered a dislocated thumb during the Bears' loss to the Vikings on Oct. 15. The team believes he won't require surgery, and he has shown progress. The swelling has reduced in Fields' thumb, but his grip strength needs to improve before he can return.
Fields is considered "week-to-week" with his health, Eberflus said.
Bagent was 21-of-29 for 162 yards and a touchdown in the Bears' 30-12 win over the Raiders on Sunday, which marked his first career NFL start.
Bears safety Jaquan Brisker (illness), offensive tackle Darnell Wright (shoulder/toe), right guard Nate Davis (high ankle sprain) and cornerback Terell Smith (mono) also didn't practice Wednesday. Safety Eddie Jackson (foot), offensive tackle Braxton Jones (neck) and guard Dan Feeney (knee) were limited in practice.
Rookie running back Roschon Johnson (concussion) and pass rusher Khalid Kareem (hip) practiced in full Wednesday.
The Bears and Chargers kick off at 7:20 p.m. CT on Sunday.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.