LJ Smith did not practice once again Thursday and now appears to be a gametime decision. It appears that there has been some inflammation around the area of his sports hernia injury, and he continues to say it's not setback. That said, I really thought the second surgery he had was supposed to prevent that soreness and inflammation.
Brian Dawkins returned to practice for the first since week 2, he was only a limited participant but this is the first positive news we've heard about Dawk in a while. I'd still be somewhat surprised if he played this weekend, but he's getting close.
Lito Sheppard once again had full participation and appears set to start this weekend. He's missed 5 weeks now, so it'll be important to see what kind of game shape he's in.
One potentially troubling report is that LT William Thomas missed practice with a knee injury. It seems as though his status for the weekend isn't in doubt though. He should play.
For the Bears, CB Nathan Vasher missed practice for his 2nd straight day and probably won't play this weekend, DTs Tommie Harris & Darwin Walker both had only limited participation in practice this week with hamstring & knee injuries respectively.