Kevin Seifert, ESPN Staff Writer 12y

NFC North Thursday practice report

Let's take a quick look at the Thursday practice report, which includes news of surgery for a starting defensive lineman and an addition for one starting quarterback:

Chicago Bears: Tailback Matt Forte (ankle) again participated in a limited portion of practice and appears to be no worse for the wear. Tight end Evan Rodriguez (knee) hasn't practiced the past two days. Long-snapper Patrick Mannelly missed practice Thursday because of an illness.

Detroit Lions: As we noted earlier, quarterback Matthew Stafford (strained leg muscle/hamstring/hip) returned to practice and appears on track to start Sunday at Ford Field. But defensive tackle Corey Williams won't play after having knee surgery earlier in the week. He'll be replaced by Sammie Hill and Nick Fairley. Tight end Tony Scheffler (calf) returned to practice after missing more than a week. Safety Amari Spievey (groin) was added to the injury report as a limited participant. Receiver Titus Young (knee) returned to practice.

Green Bay Packers: All players again participated in at least a portion of practice except for safety Sean Richardson.

Minnesota Vikings: Quarterback Christian Ponder (neck) was added to the injury report as a limited participant, but he is expected to start Sunday against the Lions. Linebacker Erin Henderson (concussion) has not yet been cleared to practice. Meanwhile, the Vikings waived tight end Allen Reisner to clear a roster spot for receiver Jerome Simpson.

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