The Chicago Bears released their final injury report ahead of Monday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings, and the status of key defensive players is drawing attention. Linebacker T.J. Edwards, one of the team’s most reliable starters, is officially listed as doubtful with a hamstring injury, raising questions about his availability for the season opener at Soldier Field.
Edwards doubtful with hamstring issue
Edwards has not practiced all week, a troubling sign for a player who has been a model of consistency, starting every game over the past three seasons. The Bears’ coaching staff is preparing for life without him on Monday night, with rookie Ruben Hyppolite II and linebacker Noah Sewell expected to shoulder the workload if T.J. Edwards is sidelined.
Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed the plan, stating that Hyppolite will be on the field and Sewell will also see extended action in the defensive rotation.
Other key Bears injuries
The Bears are also monitoring the status of three players listed as questionable:
Jaylon Johnson (calf/groin): The Pro Bowl cornerback was limited in practice throughout the week. Coach Johnson noted that he has been gradually increasing his reps but may come down to a game-day decision.
Josh Blackwell (groin): The nickelback was also limited in practice and remains uncertain for Monday night.
Roschon Johnson (foot): The running back practiced for the first time in a month, which likely rules him out for Week 1 but points toward a potential return in Week 2.
On the positive side, rookie running back Kyle Monangai, who had been limited earlier in the week with a hamstring issue, was a full participant in Saturday’s practice. He was removed from the injury list and is cleared to play against Minnesota.
Vikings’ final injury report
The Vikings also face injury concerns heading into the NFC North clash. Safety Harrison Smith is listed as doubtful with an illness after being limited in practice the past two days. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw is questionable with a knee issue but was a full participant in recent practices and is trending toward playing.
Meanwhile, running back Zavier Scott (ankle) and defensive end Elijah Williams (hamstring) have been ruled out for Monday night.
What It Means for Chicago Bears
If T.J. Edwards cannot play, the Bears’ defense will lose a veteran presence in the middle of the field. His absence puts pressure on rookies like Hyppolite to deliver under the bright lights of Monday Night Football. With several other players’ status uncertain, Chicago’s depth will be tested early as they look to set the tone for their 2025 campaign.