Bears S Conte Going Through Final Stages Of Concussion Protocol

(CBS) Bears safety Chris Conte participated all throughout Wednesday's practice in a limited manner as he continues to go through the final stages of protocol in his recovery from a concussion, Chicago coach Marc Trestman said.

It's still unclear if Conte will suit up in the Bears' season opener against the Bills on Sunday at Soldier Field, but Wednesday's development was an encouraging sign. Conte suffered the injury on Aug. 22 at Seattle in Chicago's third preseason game.

If Conte can play, Chicago plans to rotate him along with Ryan Mundy and Danny McCray at the two safety spots, Trestman said. That would allow Conte to ease into his role in his return from injury and also spell Mundy and McCray, who will have large roles on special teams. McCray is expected to play on all four special teams units, while Mundy figures to play on at least two.

In other participation news Wednesday, center/guard Brian de la Puente (left MCL sprain) was a limited participant, as was fullback Tony Fiammetta (hamstring). Third-string quarterback David Fales didn't practice as he deals with a right shoulder injury. He will be out for Sunday's game.

As for Buffalo, explosive rookie receiver Sammy Watkins was a full participant in practice, so he appears on track to play Sunday. There was some question to that as he deals with a rib injury.