Otah questionable for game vs. Bears

Just when it looked like Panthers right tackle Jeff Otah would be OK health-wise, the team has downgraded the oft-injured player from probable to questionable for Sunday's game at Chicago. Otah has been dealing with a lower back injury this week. After Otah practiced in a limited basis Friday, his back tightened up, according to a team official. Otah, who missed all of last season with a knee injury, was sidelined for the Week 2 loss against Green Bay with a concussion. Undrafted rookie free agent Byron Bell started in place of Otah against the Packers, and held his own against outside linebacker Clay Matthews. If Otah can't play Sunday, Bell will face an even tougher task in trying to block former Panthers DE Julius Peppers, who lines up at both end spots for the Bears. --Joseph Person