Barkley Activated, Houston Placed on Season-Ending IR

With quarterback Jay Cutler’s status in doubt because of a sprained right thumb, the Bears (0-2) might also be without their No. 1 option at wide receiver.

Barkley will back up 30-year-old veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer, who took first-team reps at practice Wednesday. Linebackers Lamarr Houston went on injured reserve on Thursday while linebacker Danny Trevathan and defensive tackle Eddie Goldman are both expected to be out, leaving the Bears pretty shorthanded as they try to avoid a third straight loss to open the year.

Hoyer started nine games last season for the Texans. His 75 pass attempts through two games without an interception is a record for rookies, and Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said the biggest concern for an injury-riddled Chicago defense is Prescott’s athleticism.

COWBOYS rookie RB Ezekiel Elliott had 21-88-1 rushing in Week 2, but he also had 2 fumbles, one of which he lost. TE Jason Witten set for 200th career start, which would pass Emmitt Smith for second on franchise list, three behind leader Ed “Too Tall” Jones.

COWBOYS S Barry Church had huge 4 -quarter INT with team down 23-20 in fourth quarter in Week 2. It will help if Dallas is without CB Orlando Scandrick (hamstrings), but don’t be surprised to see coach John Fox demand a power-running attack. Fantasy Tip: WR Dez Bryant had 102 yards receiving vs. Washington and has either 80 yards receiving or touchdown in all four previous meetings with Bears.