Introduction to the Bears’ Injuries
The Chicago Bears are set to face off against the Minnesota Vikings, but they will be without several key starters on defense. This includes former All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who will not play due to a combination of calf and groin injuries. Johnson’s absence is a significant blow to the Bears, as he is the only player on their roster capable of matching up with All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson one-on-one.
The Impact of Johnson’s Absence
Johnson’s injury was first reported by Jordan Schultz, and it has been confirmed that he will need another week to recover before seeing the field again. The Bears’ defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen, stated that Johnson needs to get some practice time and reps before returning to the field. "I think we need to see him get out and get some reps and get some practice time. I know he has been working extremely hard to get himself back," Allen said. Johnson’s absence will make it difficult for the Bears to limit Jefferson’s production, as he is a key player in their secondary.
Other Injuries and Inactives
In addition to Johnson, the Bears will also be without several other key players, including Kyler Gordon, TJ Edwards, Case Keenum, Roschon Johnson, Kiran Amegadjie, and Shemar Turner. Edwards was Chicago’s second-leading tackler in 2024, and paced the team with 12 tackles-for-loss. Gordon had the 21st-highest defensive grade among corners last year, according to Pro Football Focus, and is the Bears’ starting nickel. The loss of these players will have a significant impact on the Bears’ defense and their ability to compete against the Vikings.
Johnson’s Past Performance
Johnson has been a key player for the Bears in the past, making back-to-back Pro Bowls and being voted to second-team All-Pro by the Associated Press in 2023. He has played in 31 of 34 possible games going back to the beginning of the 2023 NFL regular season, and his absence will be felt by the team. Johnson missed Weeks 4 and 5 in 2023 due to a hamstring injury, and was inactive for Week 17 of the same season against the Green Bay Packers.
The Upcoming Game
The Bears take on the Vikings at Soldier Field tonight, with kickoff scheduled for 7:15 p.m. CT.
CHICAGO (WGN) — As the Chicago Bears prepare to open up their season against the Minnesota Vikings, they will be without three key starters on defense.
Conclusion
The Bears’ injuries will make it difficult for them to compete against the Vikings, particularly with the absence of Jaylon Johnson. The team will need to find a way to limit Justin Jefferson’s production and make up for the loss of their key defensive players. With the game set to kick off tonight, the Bears will need to come up with a solid game plan to overcome their injuries and come out on top.
FAQs
Q: Who will be missing from the Bears’ lineup against the Vikings?
A: The Bears will be without Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, TJ Edwards, Case Keenum, Roschon Johnson, Kiran Amegadjie, and Shemar Turner.
Q: Why is Jaylon Johnson not playing?
A: Johnson is not playing due to a combination of calf and groin injuries.
Q: How will the Bears’ defense be impacted by the injuries?
A: The Bears’ defense will be significantly impacted by the injuries, particularly with the absence of Jaylon Johnson, who is the only player capable of matching up with Justin Jefferson one-on-one.
Q: What time is the game between the Bears and Vikings?
A: The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:15 p.m. CT.
