Not all practice absences are excused.
This one is, for a compelling reason.
The Chicago Bears have cleared safety Jonathan Owens to miss seven upcoming practices at training camp. The reason: He's traveling to France to support and watch his wife and gold-medal gymnast Simone Biles compete at the Paris Olympics.
Head coach Matt Eberflus discussed the decision with reporters Monday from Bears training camp in Lake Forest, Illinois. He's all for it.
"Just because we respect the Olympics," Eberflus said, per ESPN.