Oct 6, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Pierre Thomas (23) is defended by Chicago Bears middle linebacker D.J. Williams (58) during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
D.J. Williams tore his pectoral muscle while playing against the New York Giants on Thursday night and will miss the remainder of the season. He will be sorely missed on a defensive unit that already has its share of injury and general performance concerns. Williams will likely be replaced by rookie Jonathan Bostic, a second round pick out of the University of Florida. This is yet another blow to the middle of a defense that is already missing its top 3 defensive tackles and giving up a slew of yards on the ground to just about every running back they’ve faced this season (washed-up Brandon Jacobs included).
Bostic impressed while running with the starters in Williams’ absence during the preseason, but replacing the ten-year veteran will be no simple task. The rookie will have to cut his teeth without the benefit of strong defensive tackle play in front of him to help keep opposing offensive linemen from blocking him and allowing him to run freely from sideline to sideline. Williams had been playing well this season and I’m not saying Bostic isn’t up to the task, but the kid has some pretty big shoes to fill.
What do you think Bears fans? Let me hear you sound off in the comment section.