Smith Says Forte's Ankle Is Not a High Sprain

Bears coach Lovie Smith Monday  refuted reports that running back Matt Forte had suffered a high ankle sprain during the Bears loss to the Packers. Smith did admit that Forte's ankle is still sore, and may need some rest.

"Matt did go down with an ankle injury. It's not a high ankle sprain, as has been reported," Smith said. "But right now, you know when you don't finish the game and he still has some soreness, we'll continue to monitor it, but we felt we needed another running back here, that's why we brought back a guy who knows our system and has played good ball for us in Kahlil Bell."

The Bears brought back Bell, the running back who was cut before season started. With worries about Forte's health and Armando Allen's struggles in the loss to Green Bay, they needed another option besides Michael Bush.

But Bush says he is ready for the extra carries that will come his way if Forte's touches are limited.

"That's why I'm here: They brought me here to pick up where (Forte) left off, if something went wrong," said Bush following Thursday's loss. "It's the insurance plan, I guess. I'll be ready."

He has 96 yards and two touchdowns from the Bears first two games. In 2011, he had 977 yards as the back-up in Oakland who stepped in when Darren McFadden was injured. It's not an unfamiliar role for Bush.