One of the main focuses in camp is to stay healthy. For most of camp, that wasn’t a problem. In recent weeks, injuries started to accumulate. The latest list of Bears players who did not practice this week was horrifying: Claypool, Jenkins, Jackson, Ngakoue, Jones, and Scott are just a small sample of players not participating this week.
To make matters worse, starting tackle Darnell Wright limped off the practice field Tuesday. With Jenkins sidelined “up to six weeks,” per sources, and Cody Whitehair dealing with an injury to his right hand, 3 of the five starting linemen are playing where they should be. Whitehair practiced at left guard in Jenkins’ absence, and Lucas Patrick was at center with the first unit.
There was some good news when coach Eberfus spoke to the media Tuesday afternoon. He announced the return of MLB Tremaine Edmunds. He was a limited participant, but that certainly was good news.
Winners and losers after the Indianapolis game
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Terrell Lewis has had a strong camp, and his chances of earning a spot on the 53-man roster keep improving. Lewis had the only sack for the game, stripping the ball on the play. Two of his team-leading three sacks have been strip sacks.
Tyson Bagent has been the shining star for the Bears’ offense. He led the offense on a masterful 17-play touchdown drive against the Colts. He showed poise, accuracy, and arm strength and was able to read the Colts’ defense, making correct adjustments on the fly.
P. J. Walker’s time in Chicago might be short. Walker has been miserable in both games so far. Reports also point to his shortcomings during practice.
Roster Rumors
Standout DT Chris Jones has been holding out, seeking a new deal in Kansas City. This week, more than one source has linked Jones to the Bears. This tweet was just posted as this article is being written:
Tarik Cohen’s name popped into Bears rumors yesterday:
Roster cutdown dilemma
NFL teams must make their 53-man roster official by 3:00 PM, Tuesday, September 5th. While the Bears hold the top spot for waiver claims, knowing this only applies to non-vested players is important. Any vested veteran released is immediately free to sign with any team.
Poles will certainly be looking to bolster the roster after cutdown day. Still, it is important to understand that any vested veteran signed before week one has his salary immediately guaranteed for the entire year. Veterans signed after week one have no guaranty. The contract is basically a week-to-week deal.
