The Chicago Bears already were preparing to face off against the rival Green Bay Packers without the best defensive starting lineup in the world, and a first-half injury to starting linebacker TJ Edwards already made their chances of pulling off the home victory even more difficult to secure.
Edwards suffered a non-contact injury early in the second quarter, right after a Caleb Williams interception on fourth down gave Green Bay the ball back with a 7-3 lead. The injury was instantly apparent, as safety Jaquan Brisker immediately called for the trainers.
Edwards, one of the emotional hearts of the team, had his leg put in a cast and was carted off the field in a sight that has to break every Bears fan's heart. The defense will be even more defanged than it already is without him in the middle.
Bears LB TJ Edwards carted off field with scary leg injury
Edwards, who had started every game for Chicago in the prior two seasons under Matt Eberflus, missed seven regular season games in 2025 due to various bumps and bruises. Still, Edwards graded out as one of the NFC's best linebackers, especially in coverage.
This injury could not have come at a worse time for Chicago. Not only will Edwards be out, but backup and occasional fill-in Noah Sewell is just a few weeks removed from his own serious injury. Rookie Ruben Hippolyte is also on the mend for Dennis Allen.
While D'Marco Jackson has had some impressive games as a fill-in over the last few weeks, throwing him into the middle of a playoff game against a hated rival could be a huge pressure-cooker for the youngster. Things did not get off to a great start without Edwards.
Love and the Packers took a 14-3 lead on the road, as an easy Jordan Love touchdown pass to Jayden Reed with Edmunds in coverage put Matt LaFleur's guys up on the road. Things could get even worse for the Bears if they are unable to effectively replace Edwards, especially if LaFleur has some very creative pass plays that he can dial up.