The Chicago Bears have reason to be optimistic about Alshon Jeffery.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that Jeffery is "progressing well" in his recovery from a calf injury and the hope is that the wide receiver will be ready to play on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.
Jeffery sat out practice on Monday, casting doubt on his Week 1 availability. The Bears have revealed little about the injury, sustained in early August.
Jeffery finished last season with 85 catches for 1,133 yards and 10 touchdowns, and the Bears' decision to trade Brandon Marshall in the offseason puts more pressure on Jeffery to produce like a true No. 1 receiver.
The Bears lack depth behind Jeffery -- the team's wide receiver group includes Eddie Royal, Marquess Wilson and Josh Bellamy. Jay Cutler needs Jeffery to be a difference-maker if the Bears are going to have any chance against a loaded Packers team.
