October 13th, 2011 
Russ Loede 
Posted in 
The Bears are likely to be without starting defensive tackle Matt Toeaina for a pair of weeks due to the posterior cruciate ligament he sprained during the fourth quarter of Monday night’s loss at Detroit.
The former Duck will be sidelined for Sunday night’s clash with the division rival Vikings and possibly the October 23 game against the Buccaneers in London.
Following the Bucs game, the Bears have a Bye week and then visit Philadelphia for Monday night November 7.
Could Toeaina’s absence clear the way for second-round pick Stephen Paea?
One would think so.
While the rookie from Oregon State has yet to dress for a game this season, he is healthy now and awaiting an opportunity to prove himself and his draft position- a spot the Bears had to trade up to in order to select him.
“Stephen has to just continue to do what he’s been doing: going to work, practice, improving, said Bears head coach Lovie Smith. He’ll get his opportunity. Again, we’re still as high on him as we’ve been. It’s just that there’s been other guys before him.”
Hopefully, the Oregon alum validates the Bears reasoning behind moving up to snag him.
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