Chicago Bears Place Tremaine Edmunds on IR Ahead of Steelers Showdown

UPDATE: The Chicago Bears have officially placed linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on injured reserve, intensifying their injury woes just ahead of their critical matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 19, 2023, at Soldier Field. This decision follows a flurry of roster moves that could impact the Bears’ playoff aspirations.

Edmunds, who suffered a groin injury late in last week’s nail-biting 19-17 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, will miss a minimum of four games. The injury was significant enough to sideline the linebacker, who leads the Bears with 89 tackles and has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense.

In a series of announcements made Saturday, the Bears confirmed that they also placed running back Roschon Johnson on IR. This series of setbacks arrives as the team prepares to face a Steelers squad that currently holds a 6-4 record. The Bears, holding a 7-3 record, are keenly aware of the stakes as they aim to maintain their lead in the division.

In light of these injuries, linebacker D’Marco Jackson is set to make his first career start, while rookie Ruben Hyppolite II will step in on the weak side. Their performance will be crucial, particularly as they face a Steelers offense that may or may not see quarterback Aaron Rodgers—listed as questionable due to a wrist fracture—on the field.

The Bears’ linebacker corps has taken a hit with Edmunds, middle linebacker T.J. Edwards, and Noah Sewell ruled out due to injuries. The team is already grappling with significant depth issues, as defensive coordinator Dennis Allen faces the daunting task of revamping his game plan against a formidable opponent.

The loss of Edmunds is particularly impactful given his status as the third-highest-paid player on the Bears’ defense, earning $2.4 million annually. His absence not only disrupts defensive cohesion but also places added pressure on remaining players to step up. With injuries to key cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon compounding the issue, the Bears will have to rely heavily on their remaining players who have had limited experience this season.

As the Bears navigate through these challenges, they will likely explore various defensive packages, having utilized sub-packages for over 80% of their snaps this season. This strategic shift will be critical as they prepare to counter the Steelers’ multi-tight-end formations.

The immediate focus is on the game against the Steelers. With only one practice scheduled before their next game on November 24 against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Bears are treading carefully with their injured players, hoping to get Johnson and Gordon back soon.

Fans are left wondering how the team will adapt. As they gear up for this important matchup, the Bears’ resilience will be tested like never before. With playoff implications on the line, every play counts in what could be a pivotal moment in their season.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops. The Bears are determined to fight through adversity and maintain their competitive edge in the postseason race.