Expected to start vs. Lions

Fields is expected to return to action and start Sunday's game against the Lions, sources tell Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Provided fares well in practice Wednesday, Fields looks poised to put an end to the four-game absence caused by dislocating his right thumb in a Week 6 loss to Minnesota. According to Rapoport, Fields was close to a return in last Thursday's win over the Panthers, but the Bears weren't yet convinced that he had regained full grip strength. Barring any setbacks at practice this week, however, Fields appears set to reclaim the starting job from undrafted rookie Tyler Bagent. Prior to injuring his thumb, Fields turned in two straight games with four passing touchdowns in matchups with Washington and Denver.