Bears Left Guard Teven Jenkins Questionable for Panthers Game
Jenkins’ Status
Bears left guard Teven Jenkins, who played only 11 snaps against the Rams last week due to bruised ribs, is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Panthers at Soldier Field. Wide receiver DeAndre Carter is also questionable with a rib injury.
Jenkins’ Progress
Jenkins was limited in practice Friday, but coach Matt Eberflus was optimistic about his availability for the Panthers game. "He looked good. He’s progressing in the right direction. It’s just pain management."
Roster Moves
Right guard Matt Pryor replaced Jenkins against the Rams, with Nate Davis coming off the bench to play in Pryor’s spot.
Injury Issues
The Bears have altered their offensive line combination seven times already in four games. This is one reason why the line has yet to find a groove, though the Bears rushed for 131 yards on 28 carries against the Rams was "a big step in the right direction," Eberflus said.
The Bears are healthier than most NFL teams heading into Week 5. Rotational defensive tackle Zacch Pickens (groin) and reserve cornerback Terell Smith (hip) are out. But the other players limited in practice this week are ready to go – defensive end Montez Sweat (ankle), defensive tackle Gervon Dexter (hip), and tight end Cole Kmet (knee).
The Panthers’ Situation
The Panthers will be without two starting linebackers: Shaq Thompson (Achilles) and Josey Jewell (hamstring/groin).
Amegadjie a Step Closer
Bears rookie offensive tackle Kiran Amegadjie, from Hinsdale Central High, made his NFL debut against the Rams with four plays on the field-goal unit. Amegadjie is healthy now and progressing toward getting snaps on offense. "It was a good opportunity to get on the field and get some experience," he said. "It was the next step in my journey, and I’ve just got to keep getting better, and my opportunity will come when it’s the right time."
Plugging a Leak
The Bears led the NFL in rushing defense last season (86.4 yards per game), but are 19th through four games this season (121.0). Defensive tackle Andrew Billings – the starting point for the run defense – takes his share of the responsibility for that decline. "For me specifically, it’s gap integrity," Billings said. "Staying in my gap, not biting on the running backs so hard. I think [Jonathan Taylor] got me a few times with the Colts [29-yard touchdown, 21-yard run]. Great running back. That’s not an excuse. So I have to stay in my gap. That’s one thing I’m gonna clean up. That’ll help a lot."
The Ex-Bear Factor
Andy Dalton, who played in eight games with six starts for the Bears in 2021, will face his former team Sunday at Soldier Field. The last former Bears quarterback to beat the Bears was the Buccaneers’ Brian Griese in 2008. Since then, former Bears quarterbacks are 0-4 against the Bears.
Conclusion
The Bears face a tough test against the Panthers, with Jenkins and Carter questionable due to injury. Despite the challenges, the team is optimistic about their chances and is working to overcome their slow start. With a healthier roster and a focus on correcting their mistakes, the Bears look to bounce back in Week 5.
FAQs
Q: Will Teven Jenkins play in the game against the Panthers?
A: Jenkins is questionable due to bruised ribs and will be evaluated closer to game time.
Q: Who will start at left guard if Jenkins cannot play?
A: Matt Pryor replaced Jenkins against the Rams and may start again if Jenkins is unable to play.
Q: What is the situation with DeAndre Carter’s injury?
A: Carter is also questionable due to a rib injury and his status will be evaluated closer to game time.
