FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- As expected, New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. The Boston Globe reported earlier this week that Jones is expected to miss “about a month.”

Meanwhile, running back Shane Vereen's absence from practice Friday was because of an illness and he is one of seven players listed as questionable. At this point, it would be a surprise if Vereen does not play.

Offensive linemen Dan Connolly (concussion), Cameron Fleming (finger) and Bryan Stork (concussion) are also questionable, as their returns would give the Patriots a chance to have their most effective offensive line this season active for the game. That offensive line would be comprised of left tackle Nate Solder, left guard Connolly, center Stork, right guard Ryan Wendell and right tackle Sebastian Vollmer.