The depth of the Chicago Bears' depth in their defensive secondary figures to be tested against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.
Earlier in the week, the Chicago Bears ruled out safety Jaquan Brisker after Brisker suffered a concussion during the Bears' victory over the Carolina Panthers last Sunday
Meanwhile, another injury that popped up while the Bears were in London was the calf injury for starting cornerback Tyrique Stevenson. Stevenson was downgraded to doubtful on Friday with the expectation that Jaylon Jones would be starting in his place on the opposite side of Jaylom Johnson.
Full Inactives List for Chicago Bears
Player | Position |
|---|---|
Jaquan Brisker | Safety |
Terell Smith | Cornerback |
Zacch Pickens | Defensive tackle |
Tyrique Stevenson | Cornerback |
Nate Davis | Offensive lineman |
Velus Jones Jr. | Wide receiver |
Dominique Robinson | Defensive end |
Key Absences and Their Impact
Offensive Impact
- The Chicago Bears' offense is entering the game relatively healthy. Teven Jenkins was the only offensive player listed on the team's injury report last week. In recent weeks, Jenkins has been dealing with multiple injuries. It will be curious to see if Jenkins' current ankle injury leads to any in-game changes to the offensive line. After Jenkins suffered the ankle injury against the Panthers, veteran guard Bill Murray impressed in his place. In fact, Murray was so impressive that some have suggested he should start over a healthy Jenkins.
Defensive Impact
- This will be the first game where Terell Smith's absence will be felt on defense. Had it not been for the hip injury that has forced him to miss multiple games, Smith likely would have been starting in place of the injured Stevenson on Sunday.
- With Stevenson sidelined, the expectation is that Jaylon Jones will start on the opposite side of Jaylon Johnson. The Bears could also utilize Josh Blackwell in the mix on Sunday.
- Elijah Hicks will be starting in place of Brisker at safety on Sunday. However, Jonathan Owens could also see some playing time.
Special Teams Impact
- Given the injuries on defense and the added roles for Jones and Hicks, it's worth keeping an eye on the team's coverage on kickoffs and punts.