The Chicago Bears should get a boost to their dismal run defense when attempting to slow down Adrian Peterson.
NFL Media's Stacey Dales reported Sunday morning that defensive tackles Jay Ratliff and Stephen Paea both expect to play against the Minnesota Vikings, per a source close to the team.
Paea's play had improved in recent weeks before suffering a toe injury that kept him out of a Week 12 loss to the St. Louis Rams.
Ratliff hasn't played this season after being cut by the Dallas Cowboys following a failed physical. Ratliff signed with the Bears in early November but needed several weeks to be fully ready to play. He was listed as questionable with a groin injury.
The Bears rush defense has been one of the worst in the NFL. The prospect of watching Peterson gash them up the middle had to concern defensive coordinator Mel Tucker.
While Paea and Ratliff won't revolutionize the Bears' banged-up, struggling defense, their presence in the lineup is certainly a positive step.
UPDATE: As expected, both Ratliff and Paea are active and will play Sunday for the Bears.
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