Cornerback Jaylon Johnson is nearing a return, boosting a struggling pass defense. Will he, Kyler Gordon, and Tyrique Stevenson suit up against the Steelers?
Chicago Bears fans may finally get to see cornerback Jaylon Johnson in action.
Johnson missed training camp and the first game of the season due to a groin injury, but was able to play in the Week 2 game against the Detroit Lions. However, he suffered another one in the 52-21 loss to the Lions and hasn't played since.
It appears that he is nearing a return to the field after being a full participant at Thursday's practice. Like Kyler Gordon (calf) and Tyrique Stevenson (hip/calf), he was limited on Wednesday.
He got close to coming back in Week 11, as he was listed as questionable on the Friday injury report ahead of the Minnesota Vikings game. However, he was ruled out and didn't return from injury.
Getting Johnson back would be a massive addition to the secondary. Chicago's pass defense has allowed the 10th-most passing yards per game this year at 242.3. The two-time Pro Bowler (2023, 2024) could really help alleviate some of the issues nagging the secondary.
Friday's injury report will be key in revealing the status of Johnson, Gordon, and Stevenson.
Gordon has also been out for a while while recovering from a calf injury. He was placed on the IR before the game against the Baltimore Ravens. His 21-day practice window opened on Wednesday.
There was more good news about the Bears' defensive back as both Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker were also full participants. Brisker and Byard didn't practice on Wednesday. Byard used his veteran rest day, while Brisker has a shoulder injury.
While it's great to see the secondary finally starting to get healthy, there are some concerns about the linebackers. T.J. Edwards (hand/hamstring), Noah Sewell (elbow) and Tremaine Edmunds (groin) didn't practice for the second day in a row, which is not a great sign.
Hopefully, there is more good news to report on tomorrow's injury report ahead of the Pittsburgh Steelers game. The Bears and Steelers kick off at noon CT on CBS.