The Chicago Bears’ latest injury report doesn’t bring many surprises - and that’s both good and bad news depending on which side of the ball you’re looking at.
Let’s start with the not-so-great: cornerback Kyler Gordon (groin) and running back Travis Homer (ankle) were both sidelined again in Wednesday’s practice, marking their second straight day without participation. Gordon’s been battling this groin issue for most of the season and aggravated it during warmups before the Week 14 loss to the Packers. It’s a tough break for a defense that could use all the help it can get, especially with a tough matchup against Cleveland looming.
But there’s a silver lining - and it comes in the form of rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze. After missing the Packers game with a foot injury - the first absence of his young NFL career - Odunze was back on the practice field for the second straight day. He was limited, but the fact that he’s trending upward is a promising sign for a Bears offense that’s still trying to find its rhythm.
Let’s break down the full Bears injury report from Dec. 11:
Did Not Practice (DNP)
- Kyler Gordon (Groin)
- Travis Homer (Ankle)
Limited Participation
- Rome Odunze (Foot)
- Tyrique Stevenson (Hip)
- Olamide Zaccheaus (Hamstring)
Full Participation
- Ruben Hyppolite II (Shoulder)
- Jaylon Johnson (Groin)
Odunze Trending Toward Return - and the Bears Need Him
If Odunze suits up this week, it’ll be a big lift for Caleb Williams and the offense. Williams had his share of struggles against Green Bay, particularly with accuracy, and without Odunze on the field, the passing game lacked a reliable second option behind DJ Moore. Moore himself has had a tough time staying consistently involved in the offense, which only underscores how important Odunze’s return could be.
The rookie wideout has already shown flashes of chemistry with Williams, and his ability to stretch the field and win contested catches gives the Bears a much-needed vertical threat. If he’s cleared for full action by the weekend, expect the Bears to lean on him heavily.
Stevenson’s Return Couldn’t Come at a Better Time
On the defensive side, Tyrique Stevenson is inching closer to a return after missing the last two games with a hip injury. He’s now logged back-to-back limited practices, which is an encouraging sign. With Gordon likely unavailable against the Browns, Stevenson’s return could be critical in shoring up the secondary.
The Bears’ defense has been patchy at times, and missing key pieces in the secondary hasn’t helped. If Stevenson is able to go, he’ll likely step into a significant role immediately, especially with the Browns bringing a physical, run-heavy approach that often sets up play-action shots downfield.
Final Practice Will Be Telling
As it stands, the Bears are trending toward getting two starters - Odunze and Stevenson - back in the lineup just in time for a pivotal Week 15 clash. That’s a big deal for a team still trying to put together a complete game on both sides of the ball.
The final practice of the week will be the real litmus test. If Odunze and Stevenson can ramp up to full participation, it’ll be a strong indication they’re ready to go. As for Gordon, his status remains doubtful - and the Bears will need to adjust accordingly.
Bottom line: The Bears aren’t fully healthy, but they’re getting closer - and with a tough opponent on deck, every returning starter matters.