Chicago Bears are facing a major setback ahead of their Week 10 clash against the New York Giants, as star linebacker T.J. Edwards continues to battle multiple injuries. The team’s optimism regarding his availability has faded after head coach Ben Johnson confirmed that the 29-year-old recently underwent hand surgery and is also struggling with a recurring hamstring issue.
Surgery setback complicates T.J. Edwards’ recovery
Edwards missed the Bears’ first two practices of the week due to hand and hamstring injuries. Coach Johnson revealed on Friday that the linebacker underwent a surgical procedure to repair a hand fracture, though he emphasized that the hand itself is not the primary concern. Edwards is expected to play with a cast once cleared, but the team remains cautious about his overall fitness.
“He got surgery on that [hand], and the hand’s not going to hold him back,” Johnson told reporters before Friday’s practice. “That’s something I think we’ll be able to cast up and he’ll be OK. But between that and he had a hamstring as well, we’re working through both of those things to get him back.”
Despite the quick recovery plan for his hand, it’s the hamstring injury that has raised red flags within the Bears camp. The issue is reportedly the same one that sidelined T.J. Edwards for three of the team’s first four games this season, casting serious doubt on his ability to feature against the Giants.
Lingering hamstring woes spark concern
While Johnson reassured that Edwards is unlikely to be placed on injured reserve, the Bears are adopting a wait-and-see approach before making a final decision on his status for Sunday’s game. The combination of two lingering injuries makes it a delicate balancing act for the medical staff, especially with the linebacker’s importance to the team’s defensive structure.
T.J. Edwards, one of the Bears’ most consistent defensive performers, has been a central figure in Chicago’s impressive 5-3 start to the season. His absence could create a significant gap in their linebacker rotation as the Bears prepare to face a struggling Giants side (2-7) looking to salvage their campaign.
Bears weigh risk versus reward
The decision to potentially rest Edwards against New York could hinge on the team’s long-term outlook. With several crucial matchups looming, the Bears are unlikely to risk aggravating his hamstring strain. Even if cleared, T.J. Edwards’ role might be limited or rotational as a precaution.
The Week 10 matchup is scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET at Soldier Field, where the Bears will look to maintain their winning momentum despite mounting injury concerns