Nick Foles injury update: Eagles quarterback expected to play in Bears game

Some good news for the Philadelphia Eagles ahead of their wild card weekend matchup against the Chicago Bears: Nick Foles is expected to start on Sunday. More from NFL insider Mike Garafolo:

Eagles QB Nick Foles has bruised ribs and tests today revealed no break, sources tell me and @RapSheet. The expectation is he’s good to go Sunday vs. the Bears. I’ll be joining @gmfb from Philly shortly.

Foles left the Eagles’ Week 17 game against Washington early with a chest injury and did not return. FOX field reporter Laura Okmin said she saw Foles doubled over in pain inside the tunnel at FedEx Field.

Adam Schefter was quick to report that the Eagles believed Foles was “OK” after bruising his ribs. Foles showing up for his postgame press conference was also taken to be a positive sign.

Now we have even more indication Foles will start against the Bears. Philadelphia will need another big effort from their reigning Super Bowl MVP. Chicago’s defense is a tough unit that ranks No. 1 in defensive DVOA. Bears pass rushers Khalil Mack and Akiem Hicks will be trying to get some hits on Foles to make him feel even more pain.

Since coming in to start for the Eagles in Week 15, Foles is completing a whopping 77% of his passes for 962 yards (8.5 average), six touchdowns, three interceptions, and a 108.4 passer rating.

It remains to be seen if Foles’ sore ribs will limit his effectiveness in Chicago. If Foles has to leave early, Nate Sudfeld figures to be the backup ... unless the Eagles decide to dress Carson Wentz? That doesn’t seem likely but it’s worth noting that No. 11 still hasn’t been placed on injured reserve.

The Eagles must be thankful to have gotten a Sunday game instead of having to play on Saturday.

UPDATE: Doug Pederson officially confirms Foles will start in Chicago.