Eddie Royal Injury: Updates on Bears WR's Calf and Return

Chicago Bears wide receiver Eddie Royal was dealing with a calf injury picked up in Week 4 against the Detroit Lions. However, he is ready to return.

Continue for updates.

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Royal Active vs. Colts

Sunday, Oct. 9 

The Bears announced Royal is available to play against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 5.

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Latest on Royal's Practice Status

Thursday, Oct. 6

Royal missed practice on Oct. 6 with a calf injury, according to Bob LeGere of the Daily Herald. Jeff Dickerson of ESPN.com reported Royal missed the Bears' Oct. 5 practice as well.

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Royal Is Chicago's Best Deep Threat 

Royal, 30, has been excellent for the Bears this season, catching 18 passes for 241 yards and two touchdowns in four games. He torched the Detroit Lions in Week 4 to the tune of seven receptions for 111 receiving yards and this touchdown, per the NFL:

And he's now emerged as the team's clear No. 2 wideout behind Alshon Jeffery, as Chicago placed Kevin White on injured reserve for the second season in a row. With Jeffery already battling through a knee injury and struggling this season, the Bears simply can't afford to lose Royal to injury as well.

The veteran wideout has become a reliable target for Brian Hoyer, who has been starting at quarterback for the injured Jay Cutler. If there's been a theme to Chicago's season up to this point, it has been injuries.

If Royal is forced to reduce his snap count against the Lions, Cameron Meredith—already expected to take over White's role—will see a major uptick in targets. The Bears will also likely lean more heavily on tight end Zach Miller and the running game behind rookie Jordan Howard.

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