Just in time for the biggest game of the Bears’ season, Tremaine Edmunds is back in the mix.
Chicago is activating the veteran linebacker off injured reserve ahead of their Week 16 showdown with the Green Bay Packers - a game with major NFC North implications. Edmunds had missed the last four games with a groin injury, but according to reports, he’s officially been designated to return.
And let’s be clear: this is a massive boost for a Bears defense that’s already been holding the line without him.
Before going down, Edmunds was playing some of his best football in a Bears uniform. In 10 games, he racked up 89 tackles, nine pass deflections, four interceptions, and a sack - all while leading the team in both tackles and picks.
He was flying around the field, disrupting passing lanes, and setting the tone in the middle of the defense. His return couldn’t come at a better time.
With Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III sidelined due to injuries, the Bears needed some good news heading into this pivotal matchup. And while Edmunds being active doesn’t guarantee he’ll see the field - Bears fans remember all too well how Odunze was active but didn’t play in Week 15 - it’s still a strong sign that he’s trending in the right direction.
Even if Edmunds is on a snap count or used situationally, Chicago is in a much better spot at linebacker than many expected heading into the season. D’Marco Jackson has stepped up in a big way during Edmunds’ absence, proving to be a reliable presence in the middle of the field.
Add in T.J. Edwards, Noah Sewell, and Ruben Hyppolite II, and the Bears suddenly have a deep, versatile linebacker group that can rotate and keep fresh legs on the field - critical against a Packers offense that thrives on tempo and misdirection.
The last time these two teams met, Green Bay edged out a 28-21 win. That game was a reminder of just how tight the margins are in the NFC North this season.
With the division lead on the line, every possession, every third down stop, every bit of leadership matters. And that’s exactly what Edmunds brings - leadership, experience, and playmaking ability.
Whether he’s back in a full role or easing his way into the rotation, Edmunds’ presence alone changes the dynamic for this Bears defense. With a playoff berth still within reach and a chance to knock off their biggest rival, Chicago’s getting reinforcements at just the right time.