Nothing like a good scare at mandatory OTAs just three months before the 2026 season kicks off for the Chicago Bears.
On Day 1 of OTAs, it appeared that things were going well for the defense, with standout performances, and the offense gave fans hope that the new year will bring excitement for the team. Well, the defense might have to pump the brakes on the celebration of a good workout for the time being.
The Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs reported that Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson left practice with a lower leg injury, but it didn't appear to be anything serious. Linebacker D'Marco Jackson was banged up as well, as he left towards the end of the 7-on-7 drill.
Two Bears defenders were hurt on Day 1 of mandatory minicamp
Obviously, not an ideal way to start the week of practice for the Bears, as they already have so much to worry about with injuries on defense. Starting nickel corner Kyler Gordon has been missing time as he is still dealing with his core muscle injury from last season.
The last thing the Bears need is for anything serious to happen with Stevenson, as he is expected to be the starting CB2 in 2026. He is expected to compete for the job with rookie fourth-round pick Malik Muhammad for the job.
Chicago might have to hope that Muhammad progresses faster than expected, as there is a chance he could be thrown in as a slot corner or CB2 in the starting lineup. There's a lot to like about the rookie, so it might not be the end of the world, but not part of the Bears' plans for 2026.
As for Jackson, it doesn't sound serious, either, so that's good news. He's expected to start with Devin Bush and T.J. Edwards, who is still recovering from his surgery from the offseason but finally came back onto the practice field for the first time.
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The Bears are hoping they are not having deja vu in 2026 with the injuries on defense. It's early, so no reason to hit the panic button, but it is a bit of a concern.
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