Alshon Jeffery Injury: Updates on Bears WR’s Knee
Published by Ian Hanford on November 20, 2012
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
Alshon Jeffery has only participated in six games as a rookie this season, and it appears that his year could end there.
According to Chicago Tribune reporter Brad Biggs, Jeffery will have arthroscopic knee surgery Wednesday morning:
Multiple sources tell the Tribune Jeffery will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery Wednesday morning. It’s unknown at this point how long Jeffery will be sidelined. With six regular-season games remaining, it is possible he could return before the year is over.
UPDATE: Wednesday, Nov. 21 at 1:45 p.m. ET by Ben Chodos
Alshon Jefferey’s surgery will keep him out for multiple games, but it may not end his season.
The Chicago Tribune’s Vaughn McClure reported the following via Twitter:
Lovie Smith confirmed Alshon Jeffery scope. Smith said expected out 2-4 weeks.
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) November 21, 2012
If all goes according to plan, the Bears will have their second-round pick available for the playoffs.
—End of Update—
Jeffery left Monday night’s game with the San Francisco 49ers with a knee injury after making two catches. That was after he was sidelined with a hand injury for several weeks.
Chicago doesn’t need Jeffery to be successful, but he doesn’t hurt, either. Outside of Brandon Marshall, he’s the only red-zone threat the team has. His huge frame makes him an impressive target over the middle, and he has the speed and strength to separate from defenders.
In his six games, Jeffery has 16 catches, 199 yards and two touchdowns. He showed flashes of above-average play, especially considering how young he is.
The Bears have other weapons to work with, and the team is used to using them. Marshall has been excellent this year. Devin Hester works well in the slot, and tight end Kellen Davis can take over in the red zone if necessary.
More than anything else, the Bears face disappointment with this one. You want rookies to come in and learn, but injuries haven’t allowed Jeffery to do so this year.
As Biggs’ report mentions, he could return before the year is over. That could help this team make their playoff push, but there is no guarantee that he will be 100 percent ready to play.
Jeffery has shown his ability this year. Hopefully, next year will produce a larger sample size.
Stay tuned for updates regarding Jeffery’s status for the end of the season.
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