Bears injuries: Julius Peppers, Brian Urlacher held out of practice Thursday

Chicago Bears defensive end Julius Peppers (ankle) and linebacker Brian Urlacher (coach's decision) both missed practice on Thursday.

According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, both veterans were given the day off by head coach Lovie Smith. Peppers has been suffering from plantar fasciitis for most of the season and has been given one day off of practice a week. Urlacher has been battling a number of long-term injuries.

Both Peppers and Urlacher are expected to play Sunday for Chicago without any limitations.

In other injury news, wide receiver Earl Bennett and Matt Forte were limited in practice for the second day in a row due to a hand and ankle injury, respectively.

Tight end Evan Rodriguez was unable to practice for the second day in a row with a left knee injury. Rodriguez is battling a sprained MCL and is likely to miss Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.