Brandon

Meriweather

Wright’s status for Week 3 is uncertain. His injury could be the impetus for the Bears to officially move Brandon Meriweather into the starting lineup opposite SS Chris Harris.

Coach Lovie Smith conceded that Harris was a “little sore” after sitting out Thursday’s practice. Brandon Meriweather is expected to fill in alongside Major Wright if Harris can’t go against the Panthers.

A two-time Pro Bowler, Meriweather was released by the Patriots on the eve of training camp last season. He signed a one-year deal with the Bears one day later, but ended up getting benched after four starts. With free agent SS LaRon Landry expected to walk and O.J. Atogwe recently handed his walking papers, Meriweather will be in for heavy snaps as long as he doesn’t tank camp again. While Meriweather has always been long on talent, he hasn’t been an effective NFL defensive back since the 2009 season.

As long as Meriweather leaves Washington without a deal, he’ll have a chat with Rex Ryan and the Jets. It’s the third team that’s shown interest in him since he underperformed in New England and Chicago last season.

Meriweather was busted for DUI in Arlington (VA) after refusing a breathalyzer. The Redskins drafted two late-round defensive backs, and new CB Cedric Griffin has the ability to play safety. The Redskins may be hesitant to immediately release Meriweather after handing him $3.5 million guaranteed in March.

Meriweather is a free agent and won’t be back in Chicago. “It’s tough when you haven’t had an offseason,” Smith said. “I know no one had an offseason last year, but (Meriweather) came into a tough situation and was always in a catch-up mode.” Released by the Patriots in September, Meriweather was benched four games into his Bears career. He’ll struggle to find a starting job this offseason.

This is no surprise. The Denver Post suggested last week that Meriweather could be the team’s top target to replace Brian Dawkins at strong safety.

The Jets are stuck in the due diligence stage on both players, scheduling no visits just yet. Nelson was expected to draw interest from the Dolphins and Bengals as well. Meriweather is visiting Denver Tuesday night.

Meriweather apparently left Denver without a deal after visiting Tuesday night. After being abandoned by New England and torched in coverage with the Bears last year, we’re surprised he’s received the early interest.

Meriweather refused a breathalyzer after being pulled over just before 3:00 a.m. He failed a field sobriety test and told police he couldn’t remember the name of the club he had just departed. Meriweather was cleared last summer in connection with a shooting incident that took place in February, so this should be his first offense against the league’s personal conduct policy. Per ESPN 980 Washington, $3.5 million of Meriweather’s new contract and signing bonus is guaranteed.