The Chicago Bears returned from their bye week with head coach Matt Eberflus addressing the media at Halas Hall on Monday. This meeting primarily focused on injury updates as the team prepares for their upcoming game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday.
One of the key concerns for the Bears is the status of safety Jaquan Brisker, who has been in concussion protocol since suffering the injury. Eberflus confirmed that Brisker has not yet been cleared and emphasized that he still has “a couple more steps to go” before he can return to the field. Given the importance of player safety in the league, the cautious approach taken by the medical staff is not surprising. Brisker did not travel with the team for their Week 6 game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars, and there was initial optimism that the bye week would provide him the necessary time to recover. However, his continued presence in protocol raises questions about his availability for practice on Wednesday and the game on Sunday.
In addition to Brisker, cornerback Kyler Gordon is another player to watch as he deals with a hamstring injury. Eberflus noted that Gordon is “working through” his condition, indicating that he is making progress but remains uncertain for the upcoming practices. The team will assess his situation further on Wednesday, which could influence their game plan against the Commanders.
Specialist Scott Daly and rookie cornerback Tyrique Stevenson were present at the walkthrough on Monday, a positive sign for their readiness as the week progresses. The team’s depth will be crucial, especially with Brisker and Gordon’s statuses in question. If they are unable to play, other players on the roster will need to step up, providing an opportunity for younger players to showcase their abilities in critical game situations.
The Bears are looking to rebound from a rough start to the season, and the health of key defensive players is vital for that effort. Brisker, who has emerged as a playmaker in the secondary, brings both physicality and intelligence to the defense. His absence was felt in the game against the Jaguars, and his potential return would be a significant boost for the Bears as they face a Washington offense that has shown flashes of productivity.
As the week progresses, the Bears will likely adjust their practice schedules and preparations based on the injury reports. The official Week 8 injury report will be released on Wednesday, providing more clarity on who will be available for Sunday’s matchup. Eberflus’s statements underscore the importance of adhering to concussion protocols, especially in light of increased scrutiny around player safety in recent years.
Overall, the Bears are hoping for good news regarding Brisker and Gordon, as both players play crucial roles in the team’s defensive scheme. The coaching staff’s focus on health and safety reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that players are ready to perform at their best when they take the field. The upcoming days will be pivotal in determining the final makeup of the team as they aim to improve their season record.
