LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Questions this week at Halas Hall focused on a Bears run game that is not where it needs to be through two weeks. Brian Hoyer at quarterback should help force the play-calling to the ‘run-first’ mantra we expected, and the offense could utilize its rookie running back more often to help move the football.

Jordan Howard got his first NFL snaps on Monday night, making the most of his three carries, as he ran for 22 yards. With Ka’Deem Carey sidelined due to a hamstring injury this week, Howard figures to get more touches in Dallas. And he’s certainly more accustomed to playing than watching.

“[Monday night] definitely uplifting because the first game, it was kind of tough for me because I didn't play but it definitely humbles you,” Howard said Thursday. “In college, I'm used to being the guy. That was the first time not playing in a game that I was healthy for since my freshman year.”

The former UAB and Indiana back said this is the healthiest he has been “in a long time.”

“I can definitely tell at practice that I feel like I have more speed and I’m getting better conditioning,” he said.

Langford is likely still going to be the lead back considering his experience in pass protection and as a receiver, but Howard showed the coaches that he can step in if the Bears can sustain drives and emphasize the ground game.

“I was happy with the way [Howard] played in the three carries,” Dowell Loggains said. “I think he’s had a really good week of practice. He looked faster than I thought he did in preseason and played with a little bit more urgency. He’ll continue to get urgency.”

Linebacker Sean Lee leads a Cowboys run defense that is allowing 4.8 yards per carry. They may stack the box to force Hoyer to make plays, but there should be running lanes behind an O-line with two Pro Bowl guards.

"I feel like I handled the opportunity they gave me pretty well," Howard said. "I just wanted to show them that when the moment comes, that I'll be ready for it."

Jeffery sidelined: Alshon Jeffery, who was limited Wednesday with a knee injury, did not practice Thursday.

“It’s just something we’re monitoring,” John Fox said. “We’ll just see what tomorrow brings.”

Jeffery had not missed a practice since the preseason. He has nine catches for 201 yards through two games.

Injury report: Jay Cutler, Eddie Goldman, Danny Trevathan, Adrian Amos, Bryce Callahan and Ka’Deem Carey remained out of practice. Kyle Fuller, Bobby Massie, Tracy Porter, Josh Sitton, Chris Prosinski, Will Sutton and Willie Young were limited. Sherrick McManis was a full participant after being limited on Wednesday.

Roster update: The Bears promoted quarterback Matt Barkley to the active roster and placed Lamarr Houston on injured reserve. Barkley will be Hoyer’s backup as long as Cutler is out with his sprained thumb. Fullback Paul Lasike signed to the practice squad.