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With Jay Cutler continuing to recover from a concussion, the Bears made the decision to start veteran Todd Collins on Sunday against the winless Carolina Panthers.

Collins said Bears coach Lovie Smith delivered the news late Thursday morning. But given his exposure to concussions over a 16-year NFL career, Collins said he expected it.

"Jay went down with a concussion, and usually with concussions, you want to come back fully ready before you get on the field again," Collins said. "I'm ready to go. I've been around for a while. It's a team game, but I look forward to go out there and do my part, and contribute to a victory."

The club plans to allow Cutler to participate in practice Thursday and Friday, before re-evaluating his status early next week and making a determination.