Chicago Bears injuries: Jay Cutler ready to go vs. Panthers

After sustaining bruised ribs on Monday night, Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is expected to start when the Bears host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, according to a report from Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune on Friday.

Cutler was a full participant in the team's practice for the second straight day on Friday, and though he's officially listed as probable on the Bears' injury report, he said earlier this week that he would be playing no matter what, according to the report.

Elsewhere on Chicago's roster, wide receiver Alshon Jeffery remains out due to his a broken right hand, and his status remains uncertain for the future.

"We had a great week of practice," Bears head coach Lovie Smith said in the report. "We're healthy, don't have anyone to report really except for Alshon Jeffery on the injury list, so we're excited about that."

The Bears host the Panthers at 12 p.m. CT on Sunday.