The return of Pro Bowl defensive tackle Akiem Hicks to the Chicago Bears’ defensive starting lineup gave the team and many fans some optimism, in regards to keeping their playoff hopes alive when they faced the Green Bay Packers in Week 15. Unfortunately, Hicks’ presence and play on the field wasn’t enough. Chicago suffered their seventh defeat of the year, and along with the Minnesota Vikings beating the Los Angeles Chargers, the Bears’ were officially eliminated from playoff contention.
Hicks suited up for the first time since dislocating his elbow in Week 5. In a gutsy effort, the eight-year veteran recorded four tackles against the Pack, but did have to leave the game multiple times because of pain to his injured elbow.