"Coach Lovie Smith wouldn't come out specifically and say it, but indications are that Chicago Bears running back Marion Barber is expected to return to practice Wednesday.

The backup running back has been sidelined since Aug. 27 preseason game at Tennessee with a left calf muscle injury. It's too soon to speculate on his status for Sunday's game at New Orleans, but a good week of practice could make that an easy decision for the team.

Smith declined to shed any light Monday on the status of right guard Lance Louis and wide receiver Roy Williams. Louis suffered a sprained right ankle and left Soldier Field wearing a walking boot. The belief is he will not play against the Saints, leaving the Bears with a decision on the offensive line."