The Bears will be down two of their starting corners against Justin Jefferson. Jaylon Johnson (calf, groin) returned to practice this week after missing all of training camp. He is apparently not ready to return — at full healthy, he likely would’ve shadowed Jefferson. Kyler Gordon injured his hamstring over the weekend, as he was added to the injury report Sunday. Fresh off a contract extension, Gordon’s battled injuries throughout his career. He is one of the league’s better nickel corners, and very stout against the run.
With Johnson out, it’ll likely be Nahshon Wright starting at outside corner opposite Tyrique Stevenson. Wright was on the Vikings’ practice squad, so he has some familiarity with Jefferson, but that’s a big drop-off from Johnson, a Pro Bowler. Wright did have a very strong summer to earn a roster spot.
Josh Blackwell is active and could be the nickel corner in place of Gordon, or it’ll be Nick McCloud, who has 16 starts in his career and spent last season with the Giants and 49ers.
The Bears will have only two active running backs — D’Andre Swift and seventh-round rookie Kyle Monangai, but don’t be surprised if DJ Moore has some reps in the backfield.
T.J. Edwards injured his hamstring in practice in late August and was doubtful on the injury report. It’s the first game he’s missed since the 2021 season finale. He had started 51 consecutive games. Noah Sewell will likely make his first career start in place of Edwards, while rookie Ruben Hyppolite will be the ‘Sam’ linebacker.
Shemar Turner missed all of camp with an ankle injury. The Bears have good depth on the interior defensive line, but would probably prefer to have their second-round pick ready for the opener.