Bears star linebacker Roquan Smith missed his second consecutive practice Thursday, raising concern about his availability for the game against the Texans on Sunday.
Smith played every snap in the first two games, but it appeared that he injured his hip in the loss to the Packers.
Nonetheless, defensive coordinator Alan Williams was optimistic before practice that Smith would be healthy enough to play.
“As far as I know, yes,” he said when asked if he expects to have Smith.
Smith, arguably the best player on the roster, would be difficult to replace. Next in line behind him likely would be Matt Adams, who has predominantly been a special teamer in his career.