As the face of the franchise for the Chicago Bears, Brian Urlacher has been arguably the team’s best player ever since being drafted out of the University of New Mexico back in 2000. Even though Urlacher is still a Pro Bowl caliber linebacker and one of the best in the NFL at his position, the veteran has struggled to stay healthy as of late.

Urlacher’s career in the NFL has put in jeopardy over the past few years with the veteran linebacker having trouble staying healthy. Heading into training camp this summer, Urlacher was determined to rehabilitate his knee and be ready for the start of the season against the Indianapolis Colts on Sept. 9.

The rehab looked promising for the 8-time Pro Bowler as he was on track to make a full recovery then suffered a setback after re-injuring his left knee a few days into training camp. Fortunately, Urlacher was able to get back on the practice field for the Bears on Monday with the goal of being ready for the Colts in Week 1.

It’s uncertain whether or not Urlacher will be back to form or even truly ready to play in Week 1, but the veteran middle linebacker claims there’s no way he’ll be missing the matchup against the Colts.

With healthy Urlacher and the improved offense with the addition wide receiver Brandon Marshall, the Bears will almost certainly be a forced to be reckoned with in the NFC North division once again. The Green Bay Packers will still be the team to beat within the division and the Detroit Lions will also put up a fight for the division title, but Chicago may be a surprise team to watch out for heading into 2012 NFL regular season.

Related News

• NFL news: Chicago Bears decide not to re-sign Brian Urlacher
• Brian Urlacher to miss preseason game against Arizona Cardinals
• NFL Week 12: Philadelphia Eagles vs Chicago Bears odds and predictions
• NFL Week 3 Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears
• NFL Week 13: Chicago Bears vs Detroit Sportsbook odds and predictions