Injury Concerns Just Got Real For The Chicago Bears As Season Nears
Coach Matt Eberflus has never been transparent with player injuries since he became the head coach for Chicago last season. To his credit, there is no point in revealing injuries before the season begins. Minor injuries happen every day in training camps. But after the second preseason game loss to the Colts, when coach Eberflus touched on the status of the players that have not seen the field recently, his answer gave us a glimpse of some injury concerns that are more than day-to-day.
At the end of his presser Saturday, he was asked about the injuries. His reply said he hoped to have players back quickly. The last question asked him who he thought would be back, and his response was telling; He said, “The ones that are day-to-day.”
He didn’t say, everyone. And sure enough, a story broke last night. Long-time Bears beat reporter Brad Biggs came out with word starting guard Teven Jenkins could miss up to six weeks with a leg injury.
This announcement took many by surprise. Now it has us wondering about other players.
Tremaine Edmunds has not been practicing, missing several days. He has not seen the field in either preseason game.
Lucas Patrick is sidelined. After missing most of last year, Patrick might be a candidate to be waived with an injury settlement.
Velus Jones is also dinged up. With his muff in the first game vs. Tennessee, Jones’ roster status is precarious at best. Jones needs every rep in practice and must show up in game three if he hopes to make the 53-man roster.
Chase Claypool came up lame in practice but was seen catching passes in pregame workouts before their last game. Providing hope he will be 100% for the Bears’ regular season opener 20 days from now.
News and Notes
The Bears host Buffalo Saturday. Kickoff is at Noon.
The official cutdown day for the NFL is August 29th. All teams must get to the 53-man roster size Tuesday afternoon.
Any player put on IR before rosters are set are ineligible to play in 2023.