Lions rule out Levy, Ansah; 5 other starters questionable

Allen Park — As expected, the Detroit Lions have ruled out defensive end Ziggy Ansah and linebacker DeAndre Levy from Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears.

Levy (quad) has been out since Week 1, when he played all 70 defensive snaps in the season-opening victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Ansah injured his ankle three plays into the team's Week 2 game against the Tennessee Titans. It was reported by multiple outlets that he was seeking a second opinion on the injury this week.

The team has repeatedly declined comment on the long-term status of either player.

Sacks aside, Lions making strides in pass protection

Nine other Lions, including starters Riley Reiff (ankle), Marvin Jones (hamstring), Devin Taylor (ankle), safety Tavon Wilson (neck) and Eric Ebron (ankle) are questionable.

Wilson and Taylor have been limited in practice all week. Also limited during the week of practice, and listed as questionable for the game, is rookie linebacker Antwione Williams (hamstring). If given the green light, he would likely start in place of Levy.

For the banged-up Bears, quarterback Jay Cutler (thumb), running backs Ka'Deem Carey (hamstring) and Jeremy Langford (ankle), nose tackle Eddie Goldman (ankle) and linebacker Danny Trevathan (thumb) are doubtful.

Additionally, wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (knee/hamstring), guard Josh Sitton (shoulder), defensive end Jonathan Bullard (toe), linebacker Willie Young (knee), cornerback Sherrick McManis (hamstring), safety Harold Jones-Quartey (concussion) and cornerbackTracy Porter (knee) have been listed as questionable.

Journeyman Brian Hoyer is expected to start at quarterback for Chicago, with rookie Jordan Howard serving as the primary running back. He’ll be supplemented by former Lion Joique Bell, who signed with the team earlier this week.

jdrogers@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @justin_rogers