Several key players on playoff contenders are dealing with injuries that could affect their teams' chances of making the postseason.

Most notable are Chicago running back Matt Forte, Houston receiver Andre Johnson and Giants safety Kenny Phillips.

The Bears say Monday that Forte should return this season from a sprained right knee ligament, but put no timetable on his recovery.

Johnson has a "mild" left hamstring injury sustained Sunday. The five-time Pro Bowl selection was playing his second game after missing the previous six with a right hamstring injury that required minor surgery.

Houston also lost punter Brett Hartman (torn left knee ligaments) for the season.

Phillips has a brace on his sprained left knee and coach Tom Coughlin says doctors are uncertain how long he will be out.

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